Easy health tips that make a difference
Getting fit and healthy doesn’t have to be hard. Sometimes all you need to do to look and feel healthier is to make small changes throughout the day. If you are dedicated and consistent about the little things, you can truly make a big difference in helping you to achieve your fitness goals.
Every system on the inside is directly affected by our actions. For instance, a person who exercises regularly has a better looking heart and a person who eats healthfully will have less fat around their liver.
Here are 7 simple health tips that you can incorporate into your daily routine, right now:
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator. According to MyFitnessPal walking upstairs for 5 minutes will burn up to 35 calories, way more than standing still in an elevator. Walking up the stairs is also great for toning your legs and glutes.
- Ride the bike into town instead of driving. According to MyFitness Pal even a light bike ride for 20 minutes can burn over 100 calories. Plus, you get the added benefit of fresh air and scenery.
- Drink a healthy smoothie instead of a milkshake. MyFitness Pal lists the calories in a 12oz Dulce de Leche Milkshake from McDonald’s to be 580 calories, alternately a 12oz Strawberry Banana Smoothie from McDonalds is listed at 190 calories. Not that I suggest you go to McDs but it is just a simple example!
- Have a piece of fresh fruit instead of drinking boxed juice. Boxed juice is full of sugar (and often chemicals and preservatives). Fresh fruit gives you the same great flavor, with the added benefit of natural fiber which helps our digestion and balances blood sugar.
- Enjoy a spritzer of fresh lemon or mint and sparkling water instead of soda. If you trade in soda for a spritzer, you will still get the refreshing effervescence and fresh flavor without all of the calories (a 12oz soda contains 140 calories).
- Cook dinner instead of ordering takeout. Restaurants are notorious for adding extra fat and salt to dishes to add flavor. Opting to cook at home allows you to control oil content and calories.
- Do 20 squats while brushing your teeth. Why not do a few tush toners while you’re alone in the bathroom brushing your teeth?! 😉
In my opinion, there is nothing better than feeling healthy, so I encourage you to try at least one or two of the simple steps above. I’d love to hear about your successes and your own favorite easy health tips in the comments below!
My fav is taking the stairs! My elevator has been broken past few weeks and even though it’s a struggle climbing in this NYC heat, it is a hidden blessing! A great way to feel guilt free on any cheat days. Skip a step to get those glutes fired up!
Love that EM! I always go for the stairs too! 🙂