New Year's Resolutions for a Healthier 2013

Another great blog about New Year's Resolutions to help you have a healthier 2013!

The New Years has always been a time for looking forward to the coming year and reflecting on the changes you want to make.  Many people's New Year's resolutions involve efforts to improve health through choosing healthier foods and becoming physically active.

To help you and your family be successful in becoming healthier in 2013, moderation is the key.  Focus on realistic goals that are you can reach.  For example, rather than trying to lose 5 pounds in a week, work towards a pound a week or even a half a pound.  Rather than deciding to exercise an hour a day, start with a simple 15 minute walk every other day.  Once you have established the physical activity habit, you can increase the time and frequency of your exercise routine.

Here are some realistic New Year's resolutions that will help you and your family members become healthier in the coming year.

1. Limit sugary treats, especially soda and high sugar fruit juice.   When you eat foods high in sugar you get a lot of calories but only a few nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber.  Try limiting treats to one a day or only on weekends. 
2. Prepare healthy meals together.  Involving family members in cooking increases the changes of them trying new foods.  Depending on the age of the children, they can help set the table, measure ingredients or participate in planning meals and snacks.
3.  Increase physical activity.  Being active is another important part of being healthy.  Getting children involved in sports, or other extracurricular activities is a fun way to get kids to enjoy exercise.  Plan family time to include some form of physical activity so that all members benefit.
4. Start a garden.  There is no better way to get family members to eat more fruits and vegetables than plant a garden.  Depending on the space you have available, you can plant an  in-ground  garden or use containers for just a few plants.  Becoming involved in planting and tending a garden may be the extra push that both children and adults need to try and enjoy healthier foods.

If you begin to fall short of your goals, ask yourself what is keeping you from achieving them and then try to make some changes.  Focus on the positive changes you have made, and remember that it is small steps over time that will enable you to reach your New Year's resolutions.