Many of us find the start of a new year the perfect time to set personal wellness goals. Whether you’re looking to reach and maintain a healthy weight, lower your disease risks, or simply feel better, resolutions such as eating better and getting more active can improve your health in a number of ways. Fortunately, the following small steps, like taking a class at your local Community Center and eating at regular intervals, can have a significant impact.

How to Boost Wellness in 2020

1. Don’t Skip Meals

When you skip meals, your blood sugar drops, preventing your body from performing its best. Over time, skipping meals can slow your metabolism, potentially even leading to weight gain. Eating wholesome meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner is, therefore, essential to staying healthy.

2. Get Active Every Day

Experts recommend getting 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity in per week, or 30 minutes five days a week. This could simply include a light jog around the park, a brisk walk with your dog, or a class at the Community Center. Don’t forget to incorporate strength training, too: most fitness centers also have weight or resistance training programs to help you maintain muscle mass.

3. Swap Out Caloric Beverages

Even if you eat well, getting too much sugar or too many calories from drinks can derail your efforts. Sodas, juices, lattes, and alcoholic beverages can be loaded with added sugar and calories so, whenever possible, opt for water instead. As an added bonus, you’ll also keep your body well-hydrated.

4. Fill Your Plate With Veggies

Incorporating more vegetables into your meals is one of the simplest ways to eat better. Many are fiber-rich and low in calories but pack a powerful nutrient punch. The fiber in vegetables helps to promote feelings of fullness while also lowering heart disease risk and cholesterol levels. Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and sweet potatoes are also packed with potassium, which helps to regulate blood sugar.

5. Cut Back on Sugar

Many individuals eat far too much sugar, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Added sugar is found in obvious sources like baked goods and candy, but it also lurks in other foods, including bread, sauces, and salad dressings. Cut back on your intake by choosing natural fruit over sugary desserts and selecting whole foods instead of packaged goods whenever possible.

If you’re looking for ways to stay active in the new year, Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Department in Arkansas can help. Their team offers a broad range of programs and recreation spaces, including a fitness center, to help you get moving. Browse through their schedule online or call (501) 982-4171 for more information.