Step into the New Year with Health Resolutions from America’s Top Docs
Did you chomp on a bit too many holiday cookies this past season? Or maybe you slipped into the shadows when the subject of exercise came up? Fear not! It’s a new year, and it’s the perfect time to get your health back on track. The American Medical Association (AMA) plays fairy godmother with ten recommendations to help sprinkle some health and fitness magic into your 2024!
Pumping Up Physical Activity
The AMA hits it out of the park with their top tip for a healthier new year: increase physical activity. But wait, no marathon running or muscle-bulging lifting needed! Adults should get a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity workouts or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. So, if running scares the bejeezus out of you, how about a brisk walk or a bouncy Zumba class? Remember, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ in fitness. Find a routine that makes your heart (and you!) happy.
Championing Chow Choices
Bad news for fizzy drinks and processed snack fans. These goodies find themselves on the AMA’s no-no list. What’s the buzzword for healthier eating? Water – lots of it! Pair your water regime with whole foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts, seeds, lean meat, and low-fat dairy. It’s time for a grocery cart makeover!
Vivacious Vaccinations
Staying up-to-date with vaccinations is your knight in shining armor against illnesses! Ensure that all your family members have their recommended jabs, especially in winters when ailments like influenza and RSV are ready to strike. Protecting yourself and your loved ones is a health resolution that should never be overlooked.
Screening for a Healthier Future
Put those medical screenings on your priority list! They can catch potential health issues like heart diseases or cancers—breast, colorectal, prostate—at an early stage. It’s the classic ‘a-stitch-in-time-saves-nine’ proverb in action. So, time to dial up the doc and keep that appointment!
Know Your Numbers
Knowledge is power, and when it comes to high blood pressure, it can be a lifesaver. Get your blood pressure under control to reduce risks of heart attack or stroke; it’s a sure way to pump more life into your years!
Diabetes Detour
A simple online two-minute self-screening test can wave a flag on your diabetes risk. Are your lifestyle and diet pushing you towards Type 2 diabetes? It’s time to find out. The sooner you know, the better are your chances to take preventative steps.
Moderation is Key
Go easy on that drink! Stick to a maximum of two drinks a day for men and one for women. And of course, smoking? Nuh-uh! Stub it out and vape no more. Say hello to a healthier, fresher you.
Prescription with Precaution
Popping those meds responsibly and safely earns you a gold star from the AMA. Always follow your doctor’s instructions, especially for antibiotics to combat those antibiotic-resistant germs.
Slumber and Stress
Finally, the AMA’s dream recipe for a healthier new year: manage your Zzzs and stress levels. Secure your quota of seven to eight hours of sleep every night and if needed, seek help from a mental health professional. Remember, your mental fitness plays as vital a role in your well-being as your physical fitness.
Major Takeaways
- Boost physical activity with a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous workouts every week
- Swap sugary drinks and processed foods for water and whole foods
- Keep your vaccinations up-to-date
- Schedule regular health screenings
- Monitor your blood pressure numbers regularly
- Check your risk for Type 2 diabetes
- Drink moderately, and quit smoking
- Practice safe and responsible use of prescription drugs
- Manage your sleep and stress to maintain mental health
Source Citation: https://www.drugs.com/news/america-s-doctors-offer-10-health-resolutions-you-start-new-year-116841.html
