Each January approximately one in three Americans make a resolution to better themselves in some way. Unfortunately only 75% keep a resolution for a week. After a period of six months only 46% are still on target for their goal. So what are the most popular resolutions and how can we be successful?  Let’s take a look……

Losing weight is the most popular New Year’s resolution and the most difficult to stick to. But you can succeed if you don’t expect overnight results. Plan for bumps in the road by using a food journal to keep a record of what you eat and have a support system in place. There are many popular phone apps that are east y to use and convenient to help keep you on the right track to your goal.

Quitting smoking is one of the harder resolutions to keep. Some people fear they have failed too many times to try again. Many people who are successful in stopping smoking have tried numerous times. Experts suggest to try different methods to find out what will work for you.

Are you trying to decrease your stress?? Short bursts of stress can give us an energy boost but if your stress is chronic it can increase your risk or worsen insomnia, depression, obesity, heart disease and more. Long work hours, little sleep, no exercise, poor diet, and not spending time with family and friends can contribute to an increased level of stress. Relaxation, sleep, socializing, and taking vacations are all things we tell ourselves we deserve but don’t allow ourselves to have.

While much has been written about the health benefits of a small amount of alcohol, too much alcohol is still the bigger problem. Unfortunately there has been a big increase in binge drinking. Chronic heavy drinking boosts your risk of liver and heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and mental deterioration, and even cancers of the mouth, throat, liver, and breast.

Those New Year’s resolutions seem almost unobtainable however, look at them as a healthy small step in the right direction to make lifestyle changes.  Happy 2017 and remember if you have questions about starting healthy habits contact your healthcare provider.