By Maria Jauhar, M.D.

With the New Year just around the corner, now is the time that many of us focus on making positive changes to improve our health. If your New Year’s resolution needs a kick start, then here are 10 resolutions for improving your well-being in 2016.

#1: Get vaccinated. Make sure all of your immunizations are up to day. To see what vaccines are recommended for you and your family, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website by clicking here. Or call us to schedule an appointment to discuss your needs.

#2: Get screened. Depending on your age and sex, you might be due for any number of screenings, including breast, prostate, colon, and skin screenings. To see which screenings should be on your 2016 to-do list, check out the CDC prevention screening schedule by clicking here. Or call us to discuss your screenings needs.

#3: Increase the amount of physical activity in your daily routine. Numerous studies have shown the vital role that exercise plays in keeping us healthy. Adding a simple 30-minute walk to your day can have a profound impact on your overall health. Remember, before you start any exercise program, talk to your healthcare provider about a program that is right for you.

#4: Change your scenery. While walking is one of the best forms of exercise, it can easily becoming boring if we walk the same route every day. Make it a habit to find locales that will keep your walks lively and entertaining. Local parks and walking trails are our top go-to spots, but even power walking through the shopping mall is not a bad idea.

#5: Read labels. Seek out foods that are rich in nutrients and fiber. If they carry the “heart smart” label, even better. Reduce your salt intake by buying foods labeled “low sodium” or “reduced sodium.” And avoid foods loaded with trans fat and added sweeteners and trans fat. Talk to your healthcare provider about a diet that meets your needs.

#6: Plant a garden. Gardening is a great way to add a little exercise into your life. And if you include some nutritious vegetables in your garden, you will find yourself eating healthier, too. Don’t have room for a garden? Container gardening and windowsill gardening are all the rage.

#7: Learn a new skill. Mental stimulation is important to your overall health. So give your brain a workout by learning to play an instrument, taking a language class, improving the skills you already have, and more.

#8: Laugh more. Studies show that laughter is good for the immune system, improves heart health, and helps relieves depression. So rent a funny movie, stream comedy clips from YouTube, or hit the local stand-up club and get your laugh on.

#9: Review your medications. During your next doctor’s visit, bring with you a list of all drugs you take – both prescription and over-the-counter – and ask your provider to review them with you. There might be side effects you aren’t aware of, possible drug interactions that could be harmful, or even alternatives that could save you money.

#10: Socialize more. In 2015, several studies confirmed what we already knew – that loneliness has a negative impact on both our bodies and our minds and that people who are social have a stronger immune system. So join a club, bicycle with friends, or just gather with family more frequently to improve your overall health.

To help you get started on a healthy New Year, click here to schedule an appointment with our office.