5 simple lifestyle changes for better health

Brandi L. Ruffo, NP

Internal Medicine

Many health problems can be managed and prevented by implementing simple changes into your everyday life. These changes can also help decrease the risk factors associated with diseases like diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Brandi L. Ruffo, NP, shared five simple lifestyle changes you can begin implementing today.

1. Exercise. Get 30 minutes of exercise at least five days a week. This can be a short walk around the block, parking in the back of the parking lot while running errands, doing short bursts of exercise during commercial breaks or just taking the stairs at work. 
2. Hydrate. Drink at least 8–10 eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Try swapping out a sugary beverage for water at least once a day. Also try adding fruit to your water to add additional taste if you don’t like plain water.
3. Get enough sleep. Adults normally require 6–8 hours of sleep a night. Everyone is different so try looking at your own energy levels and see if you are getting enough sleep. This will also help to decrease stress levels, which can contribute to elevated blood pressure and poor diet decisions.
4. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Try swapping out a sugar-filled snack with a piece of fresh fruit or a veggie. This will help curb your appetite and hold you over until your next meal.
5. Meal plan. Planning your meals ahead of time will help decrease stress and the need to make last minute meal decisions which usually lead to an unhealthy choice. Attempt to plan at least three meals a week in advance and slowly move toward one each day. Meals made at home tend to be healthier and normally contain less fat and sugar than those served in restaurants.

“Following these five simple steps can help jump start your health and help you move toward a healthier you,” said Ruffo.