Whether it is sticking to a new diet, increasing physical activity,or quitting tobacco, Huron County Public Health (HCPH) is here to help and encourages residents tostick to it.

General goals such as I want to be healthier in 2020, have good intentions, but oftentimes are hardto define and become unsustainable. However, taking those good intentions and breaking themdown into a few small goals can help keep you on track of reaching that new healthy lifestyle.

HCPH recommends the following steps for a healthier new year:

Make an appointment for a check-up, vaccination, or screening. Regular exams and tests canhelp find problems before they start. They also can help find problems early, when yourchances for treatment and cure are better.

Wash your hands often with soap and water to prevent the spread of infection and illness.

Make healthy food choices. A healthy eating plan includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains,and fat-free or low-fat milk products. It also includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs,and nuts, and is low in saturated fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars. Startsmall and reduce your consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages like pop and juice anddrink more water instead.

Get active. Start by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking further from yourdestination. Consider mall walking if the weather is cold or icy. Adults should get at least 2 1/2 hours a week of moderate-intensity physical activity.

Be smokefree. If you are ready to quit, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or 1-855-DJELO-YA (1-855-335-3569 for Spanish speakers) for free resources, including free quitcoaching, a free quit plan, free educational materials, and referrals to other resources whereyou live.

Get enough sleep. Insufficient sleep is associated with a number of chronic diseases andconditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression. Adultsneed seven or more hours per night.

Manage stress a good diet, sufficient sleep (at least 7 1/2 hours per night), daily exercise andwellness activities, like yoga and meditation, are key ingredients to maintaining and improving your mental health, but dont hesitate to ask for help from a mental healthprofessional when you need it.

HCPH programs and resources are available online at https://www.huroncohealth.com. To schedule a flushot appointment with HCPH, call 419-668-1652 ext. 241.

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New year, new healthy you - Norwalk Reflector