15 New Year Health Resolutions That Might Just Work

Yesterday, the Globe & Mail ran a full page of Health Tips, one each from what they call “leading experts” (of who, I just happen to be one).

Here’s what the experts had to recommend:

1) Eat a pickle (rationale: fermented and preserved foods often contain bugs that may be good for you)

2) Don’t drink your calories (rationale: no benefits from drinking your calories that you cannot get from eating them)

3) Relax your mouth (rationale: unclenching you jaw helps you relax)

4) Walk (rationale: myriad health benefits of being more active)

5) Unplug (rationale: time to try other stuff – like reading a book)

6) Stop doing situps (rationale: bad for posture and your pelvic organs – does nothing to flatten your tummy)

7) Go to bed (rationale: sleep does wonders for your metabolism)

8) But set your alarm (rationale: waking up at the same time every day helps set your master clock)

9) Eat slowly (rationale: mindful slow eating is your best bet against overeating)

10) Breathe (rationale: slow breathing will help calm your nerves)

11) Clean up your kitchen (rationale: unprocessed and unsprayed plant-based whole foods are better for you)

12) Shake a leg (rationale: same as 4)

13) Use protection (rationale: helmets prevent brain injuries)

14) Invest in yourself (rationale: you need to make time to live healthier)

15) Take it outside (rationale: sunlight will improve your mood, memory and weight)

So there you go.

Don’t ask me for the actual evidence behind each of these – I’m sure it exists for what it’s worth – most of this stuff is really just common sense.

But then again, if things were really that easy, we’d be a nation of health nuts.

If you’ve made a resolution (and a full week into the New Year are still sticking with it) please feel free to share.

@DrSharma
Edmonton, AB