(BPT) - Prioritizing your health and wellness all year long is important and easier than you’d think. Adopting a few simple habits can have a big impact. These five easy lifestyle changes will help you to look and feel your best no matter the season.
Step 1: Start with sound sleep
A good night's sleep is critical to good health, but many Americans aren't getting enough Z's every night. According to the National Sleep Foundation, younger adults (18-25) and adults (26-64) need 7-9 hours every night and older adults (65+) need 7-8 hours. For better sleep, try going to bed and waking at the same time every day and avoid screens (like the one on your mobile phone) before bedtime.
Step 2: Drink to digestive health
Digestive health is an important part of one’s overall well-being and one way to support your digestive system is by getting plenty of fiber, a critical component of the microbiome in your gut. Keep in mind, fiber isn't just in what you eat, it's also in what you drink! One awesome source is Sunsweet Amaz!n Prune Juice, a natural source of 3 grams of fiber plus five essential vitamins and minerals in every serving. Amaz!n Prune Juice helps to balance and maintain your digestive health to help you feel your best.
Athletes and nutrition experts agree that digestive health is important to overall body performance. Three-time Gold Medalist and one-time Bronze Medalist beach volleyball player Kerri Walsh Jennings starts off her morning by sipping on Sunsweet Amaz!n Prune Juice to support her digestive system. “I know I perform my best on the court when I feel my best, so giving my body the fuel it needs to help support my digestive health on the go is a priority,” says Walsh Jennings.
Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, recommends supercharging your morning smoothies by putting in a little prune juice for an easy way to add fiber and natural sweetness!
Step 3: Move and groove by walking often
Walking helps increase blood circulation and boost your daily exercise quotient. Taking breaks to walk for even 5-10 minutes is a wonderful way to stretch your body, especially at work if you have a sedentary job. What's more, make walking a frame of mind by always choosing the stairs over the elevator and parking in the back of the parking lot. A little walking here and there throughout the day adds up fast and helps support fitness goals.
Step 4: Seek tasty sugar alternatives
Learn to check nutrition labels and you might be surprised to find how much sugar is in your favorite foods, particularly beverages. Seek alternatives such as PlumSmart Light from Sunsweet that has 3 grams of fiber, with just 60 calories per serving and 60% less calories and sugar than other leading juice cocktails. Less sugar and carbohydrates per serving means these juices have great flavor without having as large of an impact on blood glucose levels.
Step 5: Discover stress-relief activities
Stress is a natural part of life, but when there's too much it can negatively impact you physically and mentally. When you feel stressed, try different activities to discover what helps provide relief. Some people find exercise is a good way to manage stress, whether it's going for a swim or doing yoga. Others find that calming activities like meditation, stretching or reading can help during hectic times. Even taking 10 minutes of quiet time can do wonders! Make time for these activities to regularly reduce stress and feel your best.
