Staying healthy throughout the year can seem like an impossible task, but there are things you can do to help. Making small lifestyle adjustments and planning ahead can go a long way in avoiding a nutrition setback. Here are some useful tips to help you maintain a healthier you this year.
1. Have A Plan
During the year, you may not be able to control what food is being served at certain meal times or events, but it helps to have a plan. Eat close to your usual times to keep your blood sugar steady and bring healthy dishes to the any event you attend if possible. If you are having dessert, then consider cutting back on carbs during mealtime, and don’t skip meals to save up for a feast. If you do slip up, just get right back to eating healthy at the next meal!
Start with a small plate of the foods you like most. You can always come back for seconds. Starting with vegetables can be a good way to take the edge off your appetite. Always remember to eat slowly as it takes at least 20 minutes for your brain to realize you’re full. Doing so can help you to avoid feeling uncomfortably full later on. Savor each bite and enjoy!
4. Be Active
Don’t forget to exercise! It helps with digestion and blood sugar regulation, and it can reduce stress during one of the busiest times of year. Breaking physical activity up into smaller chunks makes it easier to schedule and execute. Keep in mind there is no amount of exercise that is too small to be beneficial. Even if it’s just a short walk after a meal, you need to keep moving over the holidays. Your body will thank you for it!
5. Get Your Rest
More stress and less sleep during the year can take its toll. Not getting enough sleep can make it harder to manage your blood sugar, but it also tends to make you crave higher calorie foods. Aim for 7 to 8 hours per night, and make sleep a priority.
6. Eat Your Calories
Try to refrain from drinking too much alcohol. It has more calories per gram than carbs. The number of calories in alcoholic beverages varies depending on the type and amount. If you do drink alcohol, try to have a glass of water in between drinks. Keep in mind that alcohol causes your body to lose water, so it’s critical to stay hydrated.
Being healthy throughout the year is a whole lot easier when you make healthy living a priority every single day. Our team at Wilmington Health is here to encourage and support you with many lifestyle, nutrition, and weight loss supports.
Wilmington Health’s Comprehensive Weight Management Program May Be Just What The Doctor Ordered
The team focuses on daily habits that impact health and optimizing those habits to prevent and treat chronic conditions. It involves six pillars prescribed to treat and even reverse chronic health conditions:
- A whole-food, plant-predominant eating routine
- Avoidance of risky substances
- Physical activity
- Positive social connections
- Restorative sleep
- Stress management
Healthy changes to your daily life can help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity and more. If you want to make healthy changes to your daily routine but need support and guidance, Wilmington Health Bariatric Surgery and Lifestyle Medicine is here to help!
If you need more comprehensive, evidence-based support to help you reach your weight loss and lifestyle goals, please visit us at