Making and Keeping New Year’s Resolutions

By Stacy Simon The New Year is a natural time to try for a new start and do things better. Some of the most common – to lose weight, exercise more, and quit smoking – are healthy habits that can help you lower your cancer risk and benefit you for the rest of your life. More than 40% of American adults make New Year’s resolutions, and almost half of them keep their resolutions for at least 6 months. Here are some tips and tools for making those resolutions and sticking to them. Exercise Be specific about your exercise goal. For example, instead of resolving to just get more, make a plan to walk 30 minutes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Think you don’t have time to add any physical activity to your day? Try simple substitutions, such as using stairs rather than an elevator, walking to visit co-workers instead of sending an email, and using a stationary bicycle or treadmill while watching TV. Studies show that getting even just 15 more minutes of exercise a day can help you live longer. Use the USDA’s free SuperTracker tools to help you set goals for managing your weight and getting enough physical activity. Eat better Eat a little less by avoiding oversized portions. For example, the amount of meat recommended as part of a healthy meal is about 3 ounces, or the size of a deck of cards. Eat a little healthier by adding more vegetables, fruits, and fiber to your meals and leaving out some of the sugar, fat, and calories. ...
Source: American Cancer Society :: News and Features - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Diet/Exercise/Weight Smoking/Tobacco Source Type: news