11 Practical Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle

As we age, the importance of cultivating a healthier lifestyle becomes more evident. Living well is not just a privilege but a responsibility we should wholeheartedly embrace. Whether you’re facing health challenges, looking to improve your well-being, or yearning to live a long and happier life, this guide can help you on your journey to a healthier lifestyle.

Eat a nutritious diet

A well-balanced diet is integral to living healthily. Eat a variety of foods to ensure you get your recommended nutrients. As per the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025, the core elements of a healthy dietary pattern include fruits, all types of vegetables, protein foods, oils, dairy, and grains. Choose nutrient-dense foods and make a conscious effort to limit your sugar and salt intake.

Drink more fluids

Our bodies need water to function properly, so it is highly important you drink plenty of fluids. The amount of water you need depends on various factors such as your age, body weight, activity level, and where you live. The more physically active you are and the hotter your climate is, the more water you need to consume. 

To help you keep track of your fluid intake, make it a point to carry a reusable bottle with you. If you’re not fond of drinking water, you can also get your water from foods such as tomatoes, cucumbers, apples, watercress, lettuce, celery, watermelon, zucchini, broth, and peaches. 

Manage your weight

As we age, our metabolism slows down, making it more challenging to lose the extra weight. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals who are overweight are at a higher risk of serious health conditions like coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, gallbladder disease, type 2 diabetes, breathing problems, sleeping apnea, cancer, stroke, mental illnesses, and osteoarthritis. It is vital you strive to ensure your weight is at a healthy range.

Keep your body moving

A sedentary lifestyle is associated with various adverse health conditions. To live healthier, you need to keep your body moving constantly. No matter how busy you are, make sure to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Look for opportunities to move your body, even during busy hours. 

For example, rather than using the elevator at work, take the stairs instead. During lunch breaks, go for a walk with a colleague around the neighborhood or do light stretches in your work cubicle. Remember, being busy is not an excuse not to make moving a habit. 

Take care of your skin

Proper skin care is essential to achieve optimal health. Taking care of your skin should go beyond your outward appearance. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, make it a habit to wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and increase it if you spend most of the time exposed to the sun’s harmful rays. 

Be mindful of your outfit, and wear clothing that can efficiently protect your arms and legs. In addition, wear a hat that protects your face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses can also be your eyes’ best friend, especially during hot days.  

Get enough quality sleep

Poor or lack of sleep is detrimental to your health. While getting continuous sleep can be challenging for some, you must exert effort to improve your sleep quality. Establish a reasonable sleep schedule and enhance your sleeping environment. Remove all potential sleep distractions in your bedroom and use lighting conducive to rest. Start a bedtime ritual that can help you sleep better and avoid doing vigorous activities.

Limit alcohol intake

While drinking occasionally is perfectly fine, too much alcohol can negatively impact your health. You don’t need to completely give up alcohol, as you can find healthier ways to incorporate it into your healthy lifestyle. Choose drinks with lower alcohol content and drink them slowly. 

Make sure to eat and drink before your drinking sessions, and avoid consuming energy beverages when drinking alcohol. Instead of alcohol, explore other alternatives, such as green tea, lemon water, coconut water, and orange juice. There are also various benefits of drinking olive oil, so take time to integrate it into your daily diet.

Practice self-care

Self-care is vital for a healthier lifestyle. Engaging in activities that improve overall well-being can significantly improve the quality of your life. Create a self-care plan that complements your health needs and daily routine. Aside from self-care pampering activities, engage in ventures that can boost your mental health. Mindfulness activities such as walking meditation, mindful seeing, and meditation can help you develop a more positive and flexible mindset.

Unplug often

While engaging in the online world certainly has benefits, excessive device use can lead to unhealthy consequences. If you want a healthier and happier lifestyle, you need to learn to disconnect digitally. 

Do a digital detox frequently and take steps to create a healthier and more productive relationship with your devices. If you’re unable to stop scrolling mindlessly through social media or other platforms, set a limit on your phone and turn off your push notifications for the time being. 

Stop smoking 

According to the World Health Organization, smoking tobacco is the main risk factor for lung cancer, and can also influence non-smokers. If you want to live a healthier lifestyle, you need to stop smoking at all costs. If you cannot stop smoking on your own, it would be best to seek professional help immediately. 

Have regular checkups

Preventive healthcare is essential to a long and healthy life. Regardless of your busy schedule, make sure you stay on top of your checkups. The frequency of your check ups depends upon your current health state, so checking in with your primary physician is a must. 

Regular health screenings and checkups allow your doctor to address existing health issues and detect potential problems before they escalate. Inform your doctor of any symptoms you may have, no matter how minor, and take all of your prescribed medications. 

Endnote

Building healthy lifestyle habits takes considerable time and effort. Instead of doing a complete life overhaul, concentrate on making slow yet sustainable progress that will eventually pay off in the long run.