Each January, roughly one in three Americans resolve to better themselves in some way. A much smaller percentage of people actually make good on those resolutions. While about 75% of people stick to their goals for at least a week, less than half (46%) are still on target six months later! It’s hard to keep up the enthusiasm months, but it’s not impossible. This year, pick one of the following worthy resolutions.
1. Lose weight – The fact that this is perennially among the most popular resolutions suggests just how difficult it is to commit to. But you can succeed if you don’t expect overnight success, also, plan for bumps in the road. Use a food journal to keep track of what you eat and have a support system in place. Check with a doctor or nutritionist to get on the right track.
2. Cut back on alcohol – While much has been written about the health benefits of a small amount of alcohol, too much tippling is still the bigger problem. Drinking alcohol in excess affects the brain’s neurotransmitters and can increase the risk of depression, memory loss, or even seizures.
3. Get more sleep! You probably already know that a good night’s rest can do wonders for your mood—and appearance. But sleep is more beneficial to your health than you might realize. A lack of sleep has been linked to a greater risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Sleep is crucial for strengthening memories.
For more information on health care options, call ChapCare Health Centers at (626) 398-6300 or visit www.chapcare.org for more details.
