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.