Watkins Heritage Remedies - Independent Watkins Associate 323239

Well it's a brand new year and a great time to start some new habits if you are you looking to improve your life, get healthier and feel better. Did you know, it only takes small changes to make a difference? Here are ten easy habits you can adopt this year for a happier, healthier, and even potentially a longer life.

1. Get into the habit of drinking more water everyday. Not only because water is good for you but because you'll find that when you drink more water you'll drink less soda or other sugary drinks. Don't be fooled, diet drinks aren't any better because they're chock full of artificial sweeteners and chemicals. Try herbal, green and regular tea if you want to add some flavor to your water. Here are Seven Reasons Why You Should Drink Water.

2. Go for a walk or get some exercise at least three times a week, more often if you can. Did you know that adding exercise to your day can add years to your life? Don't worry, you don't have to run a marathon or become an iron man triathlete either. Simply get in the habit of walking for 30 minutes a day, it is an excellent start. The big plus is you'll look, feel and sleep better.

3. Try to reduce the stress in your life. While some stress can be healthy, it can also affect our health in a very negative way. It affects our immune system, our ability to sleep and to digest our food properly. So, if you're looking for just one thing you can do better for yourself and your health this year, it would be to find methods of reducing your stress.

4. Get into the habit of eating more fruits and vegetables everyday. It goes without saying that eating your fruits and veggies is good for your health. Start by adding one extra serving of fruits and veggies to your day and add another once it becomes a habit. Watkins Fruit and Veggie Complex is another easy way to add the goodness of fruits and vegetables to your daily diet.

5. Get in the habit of avoiding saturated fat and choose healthier oils. Trim all the visible fat off meat before cooking by grilling, baking or roasting. Using Watkins Grapeseed oils is a healthier alternative for your cooking and salads and may even help reduce cholesterol levels. When you eat out, instead of ordering a burger or a steak, consider chicken or fish. Avoid fried or deep fried foods.

6. Get in the habit of eating more fish each week. Did you know that fish oil and omega 3 fatty acids reduce inflammation in our bodies? It may help reduce cholesterol and help protect your brain against degenerative diseases. No fish and chips doesn't count, see # 5 above!

7. Reduce the amount of sugar you eat. Sugar causes a rapid rise in blood sugar and a general feeling of well being. It also causes a rapid drop in blood sugar and a feeling of no energy. Then you eat more sugar and the cycle repeats itself. This roller coaster of sugar highs and lows wreaks havoc on your body. The solution, eat less sugar and if you do choose to have a sugary snack, eat it along with a protein so your body's metabolism remains more stable.

8. Get in the habit of taking your daily vitamins. A well balanced diet is excellent; however taking a multi vitamin adds little extra insurance. Try Watkins SuperFood Multiple, it's an easy thing to add to your daily routine.

9. Visit your doctor for an annual check up. Make a list of questions or concerns you have before you go so you don't forget to ask about them. Ask if there are regular tests you should be taking to test for hereditary illnesses or any preventative measures that are appropriate to your age? Cancer screenings are the most common. And when was the last time you saw your dentist? Your oral health can affect your entire body. So, it's important that you see your doctor and dentist at least once this year.

10. Last but not least, smile! Did you know that smiling reduces stress and puts you in a positive frame of mind? It can have a positive affect on the people around you as well. It's a scientifically proven fact that stress has a direct effect on how healthy a person is. So smile, you'll be glad you did!

If you adopt even one of these habit this year you'll feel better for it. If you can't do them all at once, why not add a new one each month? By the end of the year you will have attained ten easy habits for a happier and healthier new you.