5 Simple New Year’s Resolutions You Can Actually Keep

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There's always a lot of hype around setting New Year's resolutions. But all too often, people set lofty goals with the best of intentions. Then within a few weeks or maybe a few months, those goals are all but forgotten.

Been there, done that? Ever wonder how to set goals and follow through? Here are 5 simple and healthy New Year's Resolutions you can actually keep to improve your health and be happier:

The secret to success…keep it simple. And if you do get off track, just pick up where you left off as soon as possible. No need to go off the rails for days, weeks or months.

Ready for more health and happiness in 2023? These New Year's resolutions can help you lose weight, improve your health, and feel better:

1. Eat more whole foods

Here's another way to look at this. Eat less junk food, sugary snacks, and processed foods.

Instead, eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meats, nuts, seeds, and legumes. And drink plenty of water.

Here's a really easy way to eat more whole foods: Check out the complete list of Portion-Controlled Meals made from fresh ingredients and ready to eat in minutes. Pick your favorites, and we'll do the rest.

2. Be more active

Did you know about 75 percent of adults fail to meet the minimum guidelines for aerobic and strength training exercise?

Aim for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week, and two days of strength training or resistance exercises (weight lifting or body-weight exercises like push-ups, curl-ups, squats, and lunges).

Choose an activity you enjoy and make it make it part of your daily routine.

3. Avoid or limit sugar-sweetened beverages

About 63% of adults drink one or more sugar-sweetened beverage per day. This includes: soda, fruit drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, and sugar-sweetened coffee and tea.

Sugary drinks are high in empty calories that can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

Set a goal to cut back on sugar-sweetened drinks. For example, replace just one drink per day with a glass of water.

4. Improve your sleep habits

If you're not getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, you can do better. Lack of sleep increases the risk for weight gain, heart disease, depression, and other health problems.

Here are a few simple ways to improve your sleep habits:

  • Go to bed at the same time every night, even on weekends
  • Avoid or limit caffeine late in the day
  • Turn off all screens at least an hour before bed (phone, TV, computer, tablet)
  • Create a cool, dark, sleeping environment
  • Avoid eating large meals before bed
  • Get regular exercise, but not within 3 hours of bedtime

5. Drink more water

Aim for at least 64 ounces of water per day. (More if you exercise a lot of live in a hot climate). Water contains zero calories, helps you feel fuller longer, supports digestion, and provides other health benefits.

Eating fewer calories than you burn through exercise and activities of daily living is the primary factor for weight loss.

If you want to eat healthier and tip the scale in the right direction, check out the complete list of Portion-Controlled meals here.