Top Wellness Resolutions for 2024

According to a report published by Statista in Nov. 2022, the top three New Year’s resolutions made each year are living healthier (23%),  personal improvement or happiness (21%), and losing weight (20%).

In order to succeed, try to follow these seven strategies for success in the New Year.

1. Make sure you’re ready to change and that you address any obstacles that may get in your way. A good support system is a must.

2. Find what motivates you. No one can do it for you, you have to do it for yourself.

3. Enjoy healthier foods:
• Eat more fruits and veggies.
• Replace refined grains with whole grains, and processed foods with whole foods.
• Cut back on high fat and high sugar foods/beverages, along with salt.

4. Get and Stay Active. Adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and 2 days of muscle strengthening activity per week, according to the current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. If you’re not currently meeting this, it’s ok to start with less and gradually work your way up. Remember Rome wasn’t built in a day.

5. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Set realistic goals that can be easily achieved and measured (examples: I’m going to eat a fruit with every meal; I’m going to exercise for 15 minutes 3 times a week; or I’m going to give myself 30 mins per day of ”me” time).

6. Reward yourself when you meet your goals but try not to use food as a reward. Instead, go shopping, bowling, to a movie, or whatever else you may consider fun.

Change your thinking. It’s not a diet, it’s a lifestyle change and something you can do forever. Try to focus on eating healthier and being more active, and not so much on your weight.

For more information or to schedule a nutrition consult to form a plan to meet your wellness goals, contact Brandy Strub, Dietitian at VMH at 563-568-3411.