Spring is almost here. We are about to see more people taking advantage of outdoor activities. They might be for fun or for exercise, maybe both.
Fitness and nutrition are what a lot of people think about when they think about wellness, but there are other aspects to consider when thinking about living well.
To make every month a “Living Well Month,” consider these tips.
1. Engage children in at least 60 minutes of physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week. Adults need at least 30 minutes of physical activity. Besides participating in sporting activities, turn on some music and dance. Be creative by assembling an obstacle course or using Hula Hoops. Start planning a garden. Take a walk or bike ride in your neighborhood.
2. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. The average adult human body is approximately 60 percent water, which is found in muscle, blood, brain, bone, etc. Water regulates every living cell’s processes and chemical reactions. It transports nutrients and oxygen. Water helps to maintain normal bowel habits and prevent constipation. Limit the amount of soda and fruit drinks consumed daily.
3. Eat a variety of healthful foods. Be sure to have plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables every day. Most people need at least 4½ cups to meet the daily recommendation. Try a new fruit or vegetable. See www.choosemyplate.gov for more information about nutrition for yourself and members of your family.
4. Read, read, read. Go to the library and check out books. Keep the mental stimulation flowing throughout the year regardless of your age.
5. Maintain a healthy home. Be sure your smoke detector is working correctly and test for the presence of radon. Help manage allergies and/or asthma by cleaning and vacuuming regularly to reduce allergy triggers in the home. Avoid accidental poisonings by keeping medications locked up, and cleaning agents and other poisons out of reach of children.
6. Keep your family finances in check. Track your expenses and update your budget regularly. Eat at home often because meals outside of home usually cost more. Plan your menus and use the coupons to help plan your menus. Use leftovers as the basis for another meal.
Extension Family and Consumer Science professionals are part of a nationwide educational organization funded through the Land Grant University System and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Local Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals provide practical, relevant, non-biased, research-based information.
For more information about Extension Living Well Month or what nutrition/health programs the Extension has to offer contact me, Family and Consumer Science Agent Emily McClure, at [email protected] or by calling 586-4009. Don’t forget we have a Facebook page “NC Cooperative Extension-Jackson County” you can follow to learn about upcoming programs or visit our website at Jackson.ces.ncsu.edu.
Emily McClure is a registered dietitian, Family and Consumer Sciences agent, Jackson County Extension.
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