We rejoice the fact that there are no more Mondays for the rest of the year and with only four days left in 2011, well you know what that means, it’s time to renew those new year resolutions! Think about what you achieved or might have slacked in during the past year and this time round, try to set resolutions that are manageable and achievable.
The new year symbolizes starting anew for most people and 8 out of 10 of most resolutions are often health related so here’s some healthy must-dos for the coming year:
Keeping in shape
Yes, round is a shape but that’s not the way to roll! Instead spending that extra hour your have on Facebook, take a jog around your neighbourhood or on that step-master at your local gym. Slim people are constantly in motion and it’s all about taking that first step. Be disciplined and don’t always rely on dieting alone!
Less salt
If you’re constantly feeling thirsty, it might not mean that you’re dehydrated but because you’re consuming too much sodium. Admittedly, food does not taste good without salt but the recommended limit of salt intake is a teaspoon daily and truth be told, our local food contains much more than that from breakfast to supper. Sodium can also cause water retention and increase blood pressure so train your taste buds to go bland every once in a while and your body will thank you for it.
Thank you for not smoking
We’re sure that this is a resolution that has been on your list year after year and there’s absolutely no need for us to preach the benefits of being a non-smoker. Don’t make ‘quit smoking’ your 2013’s New Year resolution! Take steps to nip this habit. The internet is a wealth of resources so get on Google and find a method that works for you!
Antioxidants
Free radicals may sound like a cool name for a band but to your body, it can be deadly. Free radicals are produced when your body breaks down food but you can also get them from cigarette smoke and radiation as well. In the long run, the damages from these substances can cause deadly diseases such as cancer, memory loss and heart disease. Antioxidants work to counter these free radicals.
How does it work? Well if you cut up an apple, it’ll start to oxidise in minutes but coating it in lemon or orange juice (Antioxidant) will keep in white longer. Antioxidants can be found in most fruits and vegetables as well as coffee and yes ladies, chocolates.
Sunny side up
We’re having a tough time convincing our man that applying sunblock isn’t out of vanity but for health purposes. Skin cancer usually develops after the age of 50 but sun damage can begin much much earlier and they can make wrinkles and brown spots appear way ahead of you turning 50. Whether its SPF 30 or 50, make sure to keep your skin well protected to look young as long as possible.
Gummy goodness
Do you religiously take your makeup off before going to bed but forget to brush your teeth instead? An entire night of unclean teeth and result in bacteria build up in your mouth which will then cause gum disease and tooth loss. Not a pretty sight and brushing and flossing your teeth daily will not cause as much a trip to the dentist! That said, it’s important to get an annual dental check-up so that your dentist will be able to spot any problems you have early.
If you’re already doing one or more items on this checklist then good for you! Outer beauty always begins on the inside and what you eat on the inside shows on your skin. Bad habits like over-eating, smoking and not using sunblock may not show on your skin immediately but trust us, you won’t be liking it very much in the years to come so why not make 2012 the year you live healthier?
