The New Year marks a time for resolutions. Many of us set positive intentions to eat better, feel better, do more, love more and live healthier. While some goals may be overly ambitious, setting you back to your old ways come February, here are five small, simple goals changes to incorporate into your life that will make a huge impact on overall well-being:
1. Nix excess sugar from your diet.
Looking to lose that muffin top and boost energy? Cut down on those sugars. Sugar is one of the top causes of weight gain — especially around the mid section. Plus, it suppresses your immune system and affects mood. Make a conscious effort not to consume more than 40 grams of sugar per day. Replace sugar in your coffee or tea with cinnamon, which actually lowers blood sugar levels; replace refined breads and pastas with whole grains; and hold the condiments (sorry, ketchup!).
2. Get more shut-eye.
Studies show that those who sleep less than seven hours per night tend to gain an extra 2.5 pounds over those who get a full night’s rest. Plus, getting a good night sleep improves concentration and memory and lowers the risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer, prostate, liver and colorectal cancer. Try going to bed an extra hour earlier. If counting sheep doesn’t work, try sipping on chamomile tea.
3. Add one extra serving of greens per day.
Adding just an extra serving of greens to your day can help boost energy and health. A convenient way to do this is to add greens to your morning smoothie. Plus, it helps get it out of the way early in your day. If blending raw kale is not your thing, try adding a scoop of protein powder to a blender with frozen berries and your favorite milk alternative. One scoop of some brands contains two servings of greens, from sources such as alfalfa grass, spinach, broccoli and organic kale. Plus, it contains 20 grams of plant-based protein to satiate hunger, and only 120 calories. And it tastes delicious, too.
4. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water.
Drinking water helps clear your complexion and boost energy. One of the number one causes of fatigue is dehydration, and the same goes for aged skin. Nothing will give you more of a youthful glow than hydrating your skin from the inside out with water. It helps flush toxins from your body and keeps skin supple.
5. Spend more time hanging out with loved ones.
If you want to boost your mood, hang out with your favorite people. Research shows that hanging out with your favorite pals, having a good laugh and sharing quality bonding time is just as effective — if not better than — exercise for lifting your spirits. It helps boost serotonin levels and reduces stress. Plus, there’s nothing more fulfilling than giving and receiving genuine love.
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5 Easy Steps for a Healthy and Happy 2016 originally appeared on usnews.com
