Three months into the year and most of us struggle to maintain the health goals we had set for ourselves at the start of 2018. Try these simple lifestyle modifications and you will get right back on track. Remember, the choices you make each day will influence your health in the long run.

1.Kick Your Bad Habits

When people talk about bad habits, first things that come to mind are smoking, drugs and excessive alcohol consumption. There’s no doubt that these habits are unhealthy, but there are a few other practices that seem innocuous, but will become a problem if not nipped in the bud.  These include consumption of processed foods, sugar, caffeine and junk food. When taken in moderation, they’re okay, but make a change by reducing the number of cups of coffee ,cut down on a spoonful of sugar at a time, and switch from fried snacks to healthy options like boiled chickpeas or even roasted peanuts (in moderation, of course!)

2. Regular check ups

Calendar in an annual health check just to ensure that everything is fine and working as it should be. Most importantly, get to know your body by observing any unusual changes. Self-examine your breast or testicles and get suspicious-looking moles checked out.

3. Sound Sleep

Sleep affects your physical and mental health enormously and most of us do not get enough quality sleep. Inadequate sleep badly affects metabolism, mood, concentration, memory, motor skills, stress hormones, immune system, and cardiovascular health. Sleep is magical and allows the body to heal, mend and revitalize.  

4. Exercise

Exercise is essential to stay fit and healthy. Cardio exercise helps to strengthen the heart and lungs, strength training helps your muscles, and stretching lowers the risk of injury by increasing flexibility. Exercise also promotes circulation and can help battle depression.

5. Eat Smart

Eat wisely and include as many fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and include healthy sources of protein into your diet regimen. Eat a balanced meal and never overeat. Eat slowly, watch what you eat and stop before you become completely full. Snack on healthy options such as fruit, vegetables and nuts.

6. Never Skip Breakfast

A wholesome breakfast kick-starts your day. It gets you the required energy and fuel for better mental and physical performance. Eating breakfast helps to prevent blood sugar spikes and maintain a healthy weight because there is less chance to overindulge later in the day. Oats, muesli and traditional south-Indian idlis are the top picks for a healthy breakfast.

7.Drink water

The food and fluids contain water that will help you to maintain your body hydration. Fresh, clean, plain water is the best and healthiest beverage for maintaining a healthy body. Water is the natural cleanser for our organs and digestive system. Staying hydrated is very crucial for the brain as well as for helping to detoxify through perspiration and urine.

8. Beat Stress

Stress can cause a heap of problems, from heart issues to digestive problems. Many people do not know, how to manage stress. Exercise, meditation, deep breathing, yoga, doing what interests you, spirituality, and walking to enjoy nature can all  help to alleviate the harmful effects of stress on the body. Most importantly, be with people whose company you enjoy!

Try and make at least one change at a time, and you will certainly arrive at your health goals.