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Small Steps that will Lead to a Healthier You
We are well into the new year and it’s time to check up on those of you who made resolutions to improve your health. Are you succeeding? Have you had a few minor setbacks? Do you need a boost of encouragement? Regardless of your progress, we wanted to help out with a few small steps that will lead to a healthier you in 2019.
Eat Breakfast
I’m sure you’ve heard “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” But has anyone ever explained why? After the usual 7-8 hours of sleep, your body is well-rested and ready to start anew. A healthy breakfast stimulates your metabolism which helps you burn more calories during the day. Through this first meal you’re telling your body there are enough calories to go about your day. If your body doesn’t get that message, it goes into maintenance mode, conserving rather than burning any incoming calories. Rush University Medical Center suggests a few healthy breakfast choices to kickstart your day and to help maintain a healthy body weight.
Just Add Water
Some of the greatest health benefits come from drinking water. Not only does your body need it to survive, but it eliminates waste through urination, perspiration and bowel movements, maintains your body temperature, etc. If staying hydrated is a challenge, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to your water or even infuse it with fruit for added flavor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention even suggests eating foods with high water content such as melon or celery. More benefits to drinking water are outlined by Medical News Today.
Take the Stairs
While the elevator may be convenient, taking the stairs is a much healthier alternative. Every time you take the stairs, you’re boosting your heart rate. Though in short bursts, the steady leg and hip movements from taking the stairs causes you to breathe deeper, increasing your heartbeat and leading to increased blood flow throughout your body. Taking the stairs can also help strengthen your leg joints and muscles so even if you only opt for the stairs once a day, that’s a good start.
Stand More, Sit Less
Many of us have jobs that require sitting for many hours at a time. Unfortunately, this lack of movement poses a number of health risks. If possible, stand as often as you can while working as it can help strengthen your core muscles and improve your posture and balance. Did you know your body will burn more calories standing rather than sitting? Standing up at work will greatly reduce your risk of weight gain and obesity. It will also help lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. By standing and breaking up the amount of time you spend sitting, your blood sugar levels will go down - which is key to preventing diabetes.
At SIHF Healthcare, the medical providers at each location want you to take care of yourself. Small steps and little improvements can make life-changing differences in your overall health. Find an SIHF health center near you and book an appointment today. Your provider will take the time to listen to your health concerns and offer the best treatment that is right for you.