8 Simple Steps to Healthy Living

Being plant-based doesn’t automatically mean you’re healthy. After changing your eating habits, there are a few simple steps for healthy living.

It’s no secret that the majority of people are not living as healthy as they could be. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only one in three adults get the recommended amount of physical activity each week, and less than half of all adults eat the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables per day.

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While there are many factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health, there are some basic lifestyle changes that everyone can make to improve their health and well-being. Here are eight simple steps that you can take to healthy living:

1. Get active

There is no magic number when it comes to how much physical activity you should be getting each week, but the CDC recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity (or a combination of both) each week.

2. Eat healthily

You know that we’re all about healthy food habits. Eating a healthy diet is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. Focus on consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and easy protein like with instant pot pinto beans, and limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. We love using our Instant Pot because it makes having perfectly cooked, high-protein, foods like beans and lentils, so fast and easy. Plus, less trash (no cans!) and you can make the exact amount you need. 

3. Don’t smoke

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, so if you currently smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. Talk to your doctor about methods to help you quit smoking for good.

4. Limit your alcohol intake

Moderate alcohol consumption (up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men) has been linked with health benefits like a reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes. But drinking too much alcohol can have serious negative effects on your health, so it’s important to stay within the recommended limits.

5. Get enough sleep

Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night for optimal health. If you’re not getting enough sleep, you may be at increased risk for chronic health problems like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Sometimes you need a little help doing that, like reducing stress (see #6) or finding natural sleep aids that work for you such as melatonin or CBD products like this one.

6. Manage stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on your physical and mental health, so it’s important to find ways to manage it. Exercise, meditation, and yoga are all great stress relievers.

7. See your doctor regularly

Regular checkups and screenings are important for catching health problems early when they’re most treatable. Make sure to keep up with recommended screenings for things like cancer, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

8. Visit friends and family

Spending time with loved ones has been linked with better health and well-being, so make sure to schedule regular get-togethers with your friends and family.

There you have it!

Following these simple steps can help you live a healthier life. Just remember that every little bit counts, so even making small changes in your lifestyle can greatly impact your health. Living a healthy lifestyle isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. Making healthy choices each day can help you improve your overall health and well-being!

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