Healthy Delaware Update: Healthy Tips

Start AND Stay Healthy in 2018

Happy New Year! By now, you’re probably working toward that New Year’s resolution. Whether it’s eating better, exercising more, or finally putting out the cigarettes for good, we hope your resolution will help you better yourself. Lifestyle changes can lower the risk of developing, and even prevent, many chronic diseases. Here are some ways we can help you get healthy — and stay healthy — all year long.

Increase physical activity to reduce your risks.

Pick activities you like doing, whether it’s walking, biking, dancing, or playing with your kids. Start out slowly. Set a goal of just 10 minutes a day and gradually build up to 60 minutes every day. Mix it up, have fun, and work out all your muscles. Whatever you do, just get moving. Find a park or trail near you.

Eat better to feel better.

Eat at least five servings of vegetables and fruits every day. They are full of natural energy that can help fight diseases. And avoid foods that are high in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium. This will help you maintain a healthy weight. Follow the recommendations of the 5-2-1-Almost None formula.

Avoid tobacco to avoid health problems.

All tobacco products are harmful. It’s not just cigarettes. Cigars, dip, chew, and every form of tobacco is toxic, addictive, and deadly. If you or someone you love uses tobacco, don’t give up on giving up. It can be a challenge to quit, but the Delaware Quitline can help. Get the support and encouragement you need.

Get screenings to get answers.

Most chronic diseases can be detected through annual checkups. And having routine cancer screenings can increase the chances of finding cancer early, when it’s most treatable. It’s important to talk with your health care provider about screening recommendations. Individuals with a family history of cancer may qualify for a screening at an earlier age. Know when and how often you should be screened.

Know the signs of non-screenable cancers.

Certain cancers, such as bladder, kidney, uterine, pancreatic, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, can disguise themselves as something else. If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms, don’t ignore them. Blood in your urine, excessive fatigue, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and even chronic pelvic pain could all be signs of cancer. Take another look and talk to your health care provider right away. Learn more about these cancers and their symptoms.