‘New year healthier you’

ILLINOIS (KBSI) – Being healthy can reduce all kinds of health risks.

A healthy diet can reduce diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer and more.

Southern 7 Health Department and the CDC offer some advice for meeting your goals and living healthy.

The CDC says you should have a plan, living healthy is more than just a diet change.

Practicing healthy eating patterns, regular physical activity, and stress management are all good ways to start a healthy lifestyle change.

Talk to your healthcare provider and remember what works for some people doesn’t work for everyone.

Weight loss is very largely dependent upon sleep, age, genetics, diseases, medications, and environments.
Make a commitment and write it down to hold yourself accountable.

Keep a food diary of everything you eat in a day to figure out what your unhealthy eating patterns are.

If you have a chronic condition or a disability, ask your healthcare provider for resources to support healthy weight and ask for a follow-up appointment to monitor changes in your weight or any related health conditions.

Be realistic in your goals losing weight gradually 1 to 2 pounds per week is more realistic than say 5-10 pounds per week.

Don’t be afraid to reach to family and friends about your lifestyle choices. Share healthy recipes, exercise together and show support.

Recognize when you are meeting your goals and reward yourself. Youve done the work you deserve a reward!

For more ways to live healthier, visit www.cdc.gov or contact Southern 7 Health Department at 618-634-2297 for more
information.