A Healthier You

Taking care of your body is good for both your physical and spiritual health. Here are a few small things you can do regularly to improve your health,

Instead of drinking a can of soda pop, have a glass of water, milk, or natural fruit juice.
Go to bed at a reasonable hour (see D&C 88:124), and get at least eight hours of sleep if possible. Try to keep your sleeping times regular.
Walk instead of driving to destinations that are reasonably close and safe. Walking just a mile or two a day can make a big difference. And take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator when you can.
Check the labels on the food you buy. Foods that may seem healthy aren’t always nutritious.
Keep the Word of Wisdom, and stay away from any substances you know are addictive or dangerous.
Substitute a fruit or vegetable for at least one less healthy treat a day.
Participate in a sport. You don’t have to be on a school team. Just playing with friends or siblings is good exercise.
Take time to relax. Evaluate the sources of stress in your life, and cut down on unnecessary stress.
At least three times a week, replace one hour of television, Internet, or other form of sit-down entertainment with an hour of physical activity such as bike riding, basketball, or walking.
When you eat at restaurants, choose menu items that will provide a balanced meal in a regular portion size.
Exercise your brain by doing a crossword puzzle, reading the newspaper or a good book, or learning about something new.
Don’t skip meals. Eating nutritious meals regularly keeps your body functioning the way it should.
Skip the fad diets. Fad diets can range from totally useless to very harmful. Eating a balanced diet, like that suggested in the Word of Wisdom and in your country’s nutrition guidelines, will help you stay healthy.
Take care of any specific health needs you have. If you have a special health concern, such as diabetes or some other risk factor, be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations.

Photograph by Christina Smith