Six Healthy Habits for the New Year

This time of year, most of us are caught up in the rush of the holiday season. But even in the midst of this busy time of year, it's important to keep your most important asset - your health and wellness - in focus! If your health has taken a backseat to other concerns during the past year, now's the time to consider how you can turn things around in the New Year.
Check out these Six Healthy Habits for 2012!

Stress Less. Stress is now recognized as a significant risk factor for many health problems such as depression, insomnia, headaches, heart disease, infertility and it is also associated with suppressed immune function and weight gain. Find ways to take the end off your stress and promote better mind-body wellness. Try yoga, Tai Chi, or simply going for a walk or doing stretches while listening to relaxation music.
Lose the Spare Tire. Carrying extra fat around your mid-section not only makes it harder to cinch your belt, but belly fat is known to be a risk factor for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Following a healthy lifestyle is key to weight management....and making a few simple changes can get you there. Eat small frequent meals with low glycemic (low GI) carbohydrates, such as whole grains and vegetables, along with lean protein (chicken/fish) and healthy fats. Supplements can help support your efforts. Try Phase 2 Carb Controller . . . it works by neutralizing dietary starches, thus reducing starch calorie absorption. Take it before meals that include bread, pasta, rice or potatoes. It also helps promote better blood sugar control and manage hunger/cravings.
Drink more Green Tea. Numerous studies have found that green tea offers a range of health benefits and can help fight a number of chronic diseases. It contains powerful antioxidants such as EGCG, which provide benefits for the heart. It can also give you an edge on weight management because it helps rev-up your metabolism.
Get more Sleep. Most adults are not getting nearly enough sleep at night.
Take 10,000 Steps a Day. Exercise is a proven way to cut your risk of health problems, and it can help with many of the Six Healthy Habits outlined here. Exercise improves body composition, reduces stress, improves sleep quality, and it also gives you more energy to enjoy your daily activities. Walking is a great way to get exercise without spending money. It's a weight bearing activity, so it's good for your bones, plus it provides cardiovascular benefits and is good for improving circulation. If you are currently not exercising, start slow and gradually increase the duration and intensity. Using a pedometer can help you keep track of how many steps you are taking.
Listen to Your Body. If you are struggling with fatigue, headaches, frequent infections or aches and pains, don't ignore these symptoms. They could signal an underlying medical problem. While we often neglect minor issues or pass them off as part of a bad day, it is important to get these things checked out. See your doctor and make sure you get any necessary health screenings done. Review any laboratory or testing results with your doctor.

Making these simple changes to your lifestyle can help you be your best in the new year and beyond. Happy - and healthy -- holidays!

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