You want to take care of your health. But with the sheer volume of information out there, sometimes it's hard to know what to do. It's natural to wonder, "How much sugar is too much sugar? Should I give up my daily coffee? How many steps do I really need?"
As a doctor, I know that the research you hear in the media often gives you just one piece of a much larger puzzle. But as consumers, it's tough to know how to incorporate that information into your life. Here's my hint: Don't worry about it too much.
The science is always evolving, but some things never change. For this year's National Women's Health Week, we get back to basics. Follow these simple steps, adapting them to your age and abilities, and you'll be on your way:
- Pay attention to what you eat. Simplify healthy eating with a few general rules: The healthiest foods don't come in wrappers, so focus on foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein. Put variety and lots of colors on your plate. Choose whole fruit over juice, skip the sugary sodas, and save sweets for occasions. Another basic: Try to eat at a table--not in front of a TV--at regular meal times with the people you love.
I have been a poor sleeper all of my adult life. Recently, I've made changes to help me get a better, longer night's sleep because it was affecting my health. Bedtime is now earlier, and I'm consciously choosing a routine that helps me wind down instead of keeping me awake. Bedtime and screen time don't mix, so I avoid checking email and Facebook right before I go to bed. Now I read a book instead. The increased sleep I'm getting makes me more resilient and better able to handle what life throws at me.
Now that you know the basics, pledge to take steps for a healthier you during National Women's Health Week and share the pledge and other social media tools with your friends and family. It's never too early or too late to take control of your health.