It’s 2011, a time for new beginnings and great expectations. As we ring in the New Year and let go of old habits, we eagerly set goals for good health. How many of us really stick to our plans and follow through to the end? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 80 percent of African American women and 70 percent of African American men are overweight. Let’s face it, the “big bones” theory can only be taken so far. Being overweight is a greater risk for developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and high blood pressure. We can and we must do better. The truth is, many of us need to commit to eating better and exercising more in 2011. Yes, we can!
Heed these helpful tips to stay motivated and committed to your goals:
Show Your True Colors – This year commit yourself to eating fewer foods that come out of a box and more that come fresh. Fruits and vegetables offer many wonderful health benefits — cancer-fighting antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals. As you rate your plate at mealtime, be sure to have helpings of colorful fruits and veggies. Aim for at least three colors per meal (i.e., green broccoli, yellow corn and red tomatoes). Be sure to consume the daily recommendation of at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
Lay it Down – Sleep deprivation doesn’t only cause fatigue and irritability, skimping on your zzz’s can also lead to weight gain and illness. When you don’t rest properly your body does not have the energy it needs to replenish itself and carry out all of its many functions. You may begin craving sweets and other junkf ood to gain quick energy, only to crash and feel more depleted than when you started. Everyone gets busy from time to time, but this year be sure to maintain proper rest (eight hours a day) to feel your best.
Do it Two-gether – As you start out with your new wellness goals on your own, it’s easy to slip back into old habits. Are you planning to join Weight Watchers or a new gym? Enlist the help of an accountability partner that will encourage you to stick to your goals even when you don’t want to and you can do the same for them. If you’re concerned about the costs of new health commitments, remember many weight loss programs and gyms offer deals at the beginning of the year and there are even deeper discounts when you join with another person.
–dr. caree j. jackson
For more information, log on to dr.caree.com.
