Take Good Care Of Yourself,
You Belong To Me!

I recall hearing my mom sing this song when I was a kid, and somehow it comes to mind when I think of my own health and nutrition. As the song goes, we all need to take care of ourselves for those we love.

Some New Year's tips for better health through nutrition:

• Eat more fruits and vegetables. Try to eat one additional serving each day for dinner.
• Eat more fiber. Aim for an additional 5 grams per day, up to 20-35. Add cooked dry beans, peas and lentils to your salad, soup, and stir-fry. Choose whole-wheat bread and cereals more often.
• Learn about hidden fats. Read labels to learn which of your foods are high in saturated and partially hydrogenated fats. Find healthier alternatives.
• Smile often. Smiles are contagious and can brighten
  everyones day.
• Increase activity. Get at least one-half hour most days of the week. Walk whenever you can, even in your home. Sit less;
  walk more.
• Schedule any overdue doctor and dental appointments.
• Increase your calcium. Take and enjoy a yogurt break.
• Eat fewer sugary foods. Drink a glass of water, or eat something high in nutrition and you may find you do not want the cookies.
• Stop smoking. No matter how long you have smoked, your health will improve when you quit.
• If you need to lose weight, investigate where to go to enroll in a weight loss program.