Why does living a healthy lifestyle seem so challenging? There are endless supplements, contradicting health advice, and false information seemingly everywhere we look. The health world is confusing, complex, and even misleading. Well, it doesn’t have to be! I am here to simplify it for you with these 7 actions to help you lead a healthier life.

1) Nourish your Body

Eat a well balanced diet focusing not only on macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fats) but also micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) https://lrxwellness.com/macro-and-micro-nutrients/. Incorporate plenty of nutrient dense foods. Nutrient dense meaning the amount of nutrients you get per calories consumed. Think foods like: fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, lean meats, and whole grains. Minimize those empty calories.

Drink plenty of water! Check out this post for more information on benefits and quantity https://lrxwellness.com/the-best-thing-for-your-health/.

2) Stay Active

Keep moving. This may look different every day. I am not saying go to the gym for hours each day, but incorporate purposeful movement into your daily life. For example, one day you lift weights. The next day you work in the garden. The following day you participate in a yoga class. How about you take the stairs instead of the elevator. Or park a little further from the entrance of the grocery store. Meaningful actions go a long way. Check out this post for specific exercise recommendations https://lrxwellness.com/how-to-exercise-effectively/.

3) Rest

Arguably as important as being active, is rest/sleep. When sleep deprived, our body enters “fight or flight” mode due to release of several hormones. This negatively impacts mental and physical health. Everyone’s schedule is going to look a little different but try to get 6-8 hours every night. Improve sleep hygiene by avoiding blue light (television, phones) prior to bed, stick to a schedule, and minimize alcohol and caffeine use.

4) Get Outside

Some benefits of spending time outdoors include: improved mood, heart health, gut health, vitamin D levels, and sleep regulation. Even a few minutes a day has a big impact.

5) Belong to a Community

Having a support system and sense of belonging through friends, family, neighbors improves overall health. Even better, surround yourself with those who support your lifestyle.

6) Reduce Stress

Stress is unavoidable but can be managed. Without proper management stress can lead to a whole slew of diseases including but not limited to: high blood pressure, obesity, anxiety, depression, and diabetes. You may think of meditation, yoga, or therapy as stress outlets. While these are often effective, there are other options. Discover an action/activity that you enjoy and makes you feel good afterward.

7) Enjoy

Living a healthy lifestyle is not meant to be rigid or restrictive. You can eat things that taste good and have fun exercising without being anxious or stressed about every aspect. Balance is key.

I hope this post has provided you the tools to lead a healthier, happier life!

As always, please reach out with questions, comments, or for further discussion.

Lindsey, PharmD, BCPS