50 Easy Ways to Be a Healthier Person

People with underlying health conditions such as diabetes — and really all of us — should eat non-starchy vegetables, whether they are fresh, frozen, or from a can, because they are full of full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. If you are going to eat these vegetable frozen or canned vegetables, look for items low in sodium and fat.

With the pandemic forcing many people to stay at home, more and more of us have the time to walk, and many of us have made it part of our daily routine. Walking 30 minutes a day helps improve your balance, strengthen bones, reduce risk of heart disease and stroke, and trim body fat. It also can provide a social outlet — even with social distancing. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear and warm up before walking.

Cooling down your bedroom will help you sleep better. Dr. Kent Smith of Sleep Dallas, a dental sleep medicine practice, and president of the American Sleep and Breathing Academy, said in an interview to 24/7 Tempo, “The body is designed to sleep better at cooler temperatures. In fact, our temperature naturally drops in the evening to prepare us for sleep.” Smith said that for most people, the optimal sleeping temperature is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit.

Portion sizes at many restaurants are enough for more than one person. Control your portion size by ordering an appetizer or a small plate instead of an entree, or by sharing an entree with a friend. Populate at least half your plate with vegetables, and replace starch on your plate with non-starchy veggies.

Daily consumption of sugary drinks such as soda and fruit juice increases the risk of conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, according to Harvard University. Because the fructose in these drinks does not make the body feel full, soda drinkers tend to consume more total calories than those who do not drink soda. In a study published in the National Library of Medicine, a daily serving of sugar-sweetened beverages among children was associated with a 60% increased risk of obesity.