Go Nuts and Eat Lots of Fruits
Nuts are loaded with nutrients and health benefits – walnuts, almonds, cashews, pecans and pistachios contain heart-healthy unsaturated fats (the good kind of fat), Vitamin E, fiber and Omega-3. The endless types of fruits are spectacular for your health and are known to fight off cancer and disease and protect the heart. Harvard Health discusses this in ‘Vegetables and Fruits’, “…Vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect upon blood sugar which can help keep appetite in check. Eat a variety of types and colors of produce…”
Eliminate Refined and Processed Sugars
Have a sweet tooth? Then you won’t like this one. Processed sugars, such as the kind in white bread and the ones typically consumed in deserts are known to cause inflammation around the heart. And inflammation is known to cause heart disease.
At Least 6 Hours of Sleep is Required for a Clear Mind
The 8-2-2-1 rule is a great set of guidelines for sleeping well. The rule says to eliminate caffeine 8 hours before bedtime, avoid eating or drinking alcohol 2 hours before bed and to leave the phone out of bed. And best of all it works!
Relax and Take it Easy
Taking time to relax is a crucial component of one’s health. A quiet hike outside or an afternoon spent by the beach can do wonders. Sometimes all it takes is a good book and a silenced phone. Find your calm and enjoy the benefits.
Get Outdoors and Breathe the Fresh Air
Outdoors provides health benefits and your body needs fresh air to function and maintain a healthy immune system. You can hike, bike, sit in a bar or just go for a walk – use the day to relax and get Vitamin D, a necessary vitamin for our bodies to absorb calcium.
Floss Your Teeth Everyday
Flossing and brushing your teeth everyday leads to cleaner gums, teeth and better dental hygiene. Floss every day to get rid of bacteria build up. Flossing is also key to prevent gum disease and cavities. Cleaning between your teeth removes plaque, which contains bacteria from leftover food in the mouth.
Skip the Dessert
Changing a habit can take many months. Allow a minimum of three months, particularly for a sweet tooth. Desserts, which are full of processed and refined sugars, cause inflammation and should be at the top of your list for foods to eliminate. Next time that it’s time for dessert, opt for one with less processed sugars.
7 Almonds a Day Might Keep the Doctor Away
Obama used to swear by eating 7 almonds every night (It was later discovered that Obama was joking). Almonds are known as a brain food for their vast health benefits such as healthy fats, protein and Vitamin E.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Always wash your hands before you eat and anytime you arrive in your home. This helps to avoid spreading germs and makes it easier to not get sick. It’s also a good idea to wash your hands after you open a door or shake hands with someone.
Keep the Energy Positive
Is positive energy the answer to less stress, attaining goals and stronger, more fulfilling relationships? Our strongest and most productive emotions come from relaxation, appreciation and joy.
Green Tea Please
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants and catechins which prevent cell damage. Green tea is also known to improve blood flow and lower cholesterol. Studies have shown that green tea consumption can help with high blood pressure and heart-related issues.
Eliminate Sugar Drinks
Coca Cola is loaded with processed and refined sugars and may be the cause of obesity and many health issues worldwide. A recent study of 2,888 people over 45 found that diet sodas may be tied to strokes and Dementia risk. Next time opt for water instead of soda to stay hydrated.
Smiling Reduces Stress
Did you know that smiling can improve your mood and reduce stress? Smiling relaxes the body and can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. It’s also contagious and impacts your mood positively as well as the moods of those around you.
Take a Daily Multivitamin
Health experts have noted that a daily multivitamin does not necessary fight off heart problems or have a role in memory loss, but that a multivitamin can be good to fill in gaps in the nutrition, particularly for vegetarians and vegans. Ask your Doctor if a multivitamin is right for you.
Eat Your Greens
Leafy green vegetables like broccoli and spinach are considered ‘superfoods’ because they are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Try diving straight in and eating an entire plate of vegetables to start with your next meal. You can even have broccoli as your entire entree. Green vegetables, especially the leafy kind, have so many health benefits including the ability to fight cancer and improve heart health.
Written by Art in Aging