5 simple habits for a healthier lifestyle

1. Walk more

2. Reduce sugar intake

3. Avoid fast food

4. Eat breakfast

5. Spend time outside daily

As part of an effort to live a healthier lifestyle, many people try to make healthy changes like eating more fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly.

But these efforts can be tough if it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day to fit everything in.

Fortunately, many of our common daily habits can have a big impact on our health without requiring much effort.

Here are five simple habits you can practice every day to help you live a healthier lifestyle:

1. Walk more

You can improve your health simply by walking around more throughout your day.  If you sit at a desk for most of the day, consider taking more breaks to walk around.

If you have a standing desk, use it!  If you spend most of your free time watching TV, put down the remote and take some laps around the house or go on a quick outdoor walk instead .

2. Reduce sugar intake

Many Americans eat too much sugar, which can contribute to health problems like obesity and diabetes. One way to reduce your sugar intake is by reading food labels.

If you see any kind of sugar (like agave nectar, dextrose, fructose, high-fructose corn syrup or honey) in the first three ingredients listed on a food label, you know the product is high in sugar and not a good choice for your diet.  

Another tip to reduce your intake of added sugars is to drink water instead of sugary drinks like soda, fruit punch and sports drinks .

3. Avoid fast food

Fast foods are often high in fat, salt and calories, and studies show that people who frequently eat fast food tend to have poorer diets and are at greater risk for health problems like obesity.

If you’re feeling hungry on the go, be sure to visit the salad or fresh fruits section in the grocery store to pick up some healthier options.

4. Eat breakfast

Breakfast is an important meal because it gets you off to a good start.  If you skip breakfast, your body is more likely to crave unhealthy snacks throughout the day because it hasn’t received the nutrients that it needs.  

Many people think that skipping breakfast will help them lose weight, but studies show this isn’t true .

5. Spend time outside daily

Spending time outside is an easy way to improve your health.  Just 20 minutes of daily sunlight exposure can be enough to get the vitamin D your body needs and reduce the risk of certain cancers.  

Getting fresh air and sun also helps you feel more energized throughout the day, which is important if you sit at a desk most of the day.