You have a lot to keep track of every day with work and family priorities, let alone keeping up with healthy habits.
But it’s important to do things every day for our bodies.
“Just like you service your car to help it go longer, regular attention to healthy habits can make your body go longer and smoother,” said Chetan Wasekar, MD, Avera Medical Group internal medicine specialist.
“We know what things to do, the real challenge is getting started,” Wasekar continued.
Formula to Start Simple With Healthier Choices
Wasekar uses a simple formula using even numbers to track daily habits. It allows you to start with the basics and grow as you go.
2 cups
Coffee or tea
4 servings
Vegetables, fruits and nuts
6 minutes
Slow breathing or mindful gratitude before bed
8 glasses
Water, minimum
10 minutes
Strength exercises (squats, pushups, light weights)
12 minutes
Fast walking (increase over time)
How Small Lifestyle Changes Add Up
One out of every six Americans is over age 65. That means people are living longer. Conditions that happen with age – things like diabetes and arthritis – are increasing, too.
Following these basics can affect your quality life as you age.
“Healthy aging isn’t just about living longer, it’s about living better,” Wasekar said.
Get a Yearly Checkup
A yearly checkup is a great way to flag issues over time. Schedule one today if it's been more than a year.
