It’s time to start 2023 off fresh by focusing on your physical health. A new year means new opportunities, goals and the chance to start over. Maybe your health got away from you in 2022, or you are simply interested in focusing on being your best self. Either way, the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares various tips on how to start the new year off right by being a new healthy you!   

Here are 9 helpful tips from the CDC on how to create a healthier you this year. Keep in mind that there are many helpful tips for being or staying healthy, and that it’s important to take the time to find out what works for you. Making change doesn’t happen overnight, so be kind to yourself;  start small and then continue to create good habits down the road so you can stick with them easier.   

Eat a nutritious diet   

Create a healthier diet for you and your family. Introduce new fruits and vegetables during your meals each day. Focus on getting ample amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy products into your diet this new year. A great way to begin this journey is by trying a new recipe once a week. There are all kinds of recipes out there on social media, online cooking websites and in the traditional cookbook. Don’t be afraid to just go for it and try something out of your comfort zone!  

Be active   

Many of us have find our screen time increasing and our physical activity going down. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity every week. Want to build those muscles? Try to start with at least two strength workouts a week. Here’s a way to make being active more fun! Team up with an accountability buddy from home, your work or your friend circle and keep each other in check with your goals this year. This is the perfect way to bounce ideas off of someone and encourage each other to keep going to reach that goal.  

Switch to water  

Try to buy less pop and other sugary drinks at the grocery store and instead try drinking more water. This will help reduce calories and stay hydrated throughout your day! Not a huge fan of the plain water taste? Try adding a splash of lemon or lime juice and a dollop of honey for a nourishing beverage that also serves as your source of water.  

Sleep is important  

Adults need around seven or more hours of sleep each night to function properly throughout the day. If you have a hard time falling asleep early to get those seven hours a night, try powering down your phone to read a book or do other relaxing things before you go to bed. Nowadays there are many ideas out there that can help someone sleep, such as essential oils, calming meditations or music, foods to avoid before bed, herbal teas and having a nightly routine to help get you ready to sleep. 

Say no to tobacco  

This could be your year to break that tobacco habit! The CDC offers resources for those who need support for trying to quit at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.   

Be safe in the sun  

Make sure to wear layers to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays—even in the winter. Not only should you layer up, but you should make sure to wear at least SPF 15 whenever you are in the sun. This may seem like a redundant reminder, but sun safety is more important than ever. Skin cancer is not something to mess around with, so make sure to wear sunscreen daily.  

Always brush your teeth   

Dental health matters, too. Brush your teeth at least twice a day to keep them sparkling clean and healthy. Have kids that hate brushing their teeth? Make it fun and play their favorite song while they brush; when the song ends, they are done, too!  

Go get those checkups  

Schedule your routine doctors' checkups and be sure you keep up with preventative services, such as cancer and diabetes screenings. This is important for all ages and can be an extremely preventative thing to do in your life.  

Know more about your health history  

This year it may finally be time to dive into your family’s history. Making the effort to learn more about your health history can help you understand what good and bad things occur in your family’s history. Ask your family and doctor about the history of your family’s health.   

The CDC, along with other resources online, can help you and your family start off the new year healthier than ever! Make this year a year to focus on your well-being and positive attitude while staying safe. Now more than ever it is important to be self-aware when it comes to all areas of your health, especially physical.  

  
*The information in this article was compiled from a variety of sources and is intended to provide helpful tips only.