Start the Year With Healthy, Achievable Goals
Even small changes can add up to a more successful year.
It’s a new year, a time to start fresh and to set new goals. Determined to drink more water? Itching to be more active? If you’re like many people, your goals may include a renewed focus on maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight. As little as a 5% weight loss can help you better control blood sugar, reduce the risk of heart disease, and boost energy levels and self-esteem.
Let’s Get Started
First, it’s important to set healthy and obtainable goals. A dietitian can help you set these goals. For example, a healthy weight loss is 1 to 2 pounds per week. To achieve these goals, you’ll want to establish your own action plan, including the types of foods to eat, the number of meals each day, and an appropriate calorie and carbohydrate level.
You might also try incorporating these five simple steps to achieve your goals this year:
- Set a healthy tone for the day with a balanced breakfast. Use the Breakfast Matchmaker personality quiz to discover the diabetes-friendly breakfast that fits you best.
- Eat fewer calories each day by substituting a Glucerna® Shake for a higher-calorie meal.
- Add 2,000 additional steps to your day by taking the stairs at work or walking for 10 minutes after you eat lunch. Each step counts! Consider purchasing a pedometer, which is a simple tool you can wear to help you count your steps.
- Monitor portion sizes during meal and snack time. Consuming too many foods, even healthy ones, can lead to weight gain. Read more about portion control.
- Consume regular meals and snacks to help manage blood sugar and weight gain. By evenly spreading calorie and carbohydrate intake throughout the day, you can control your appetite and minimize blood sugar highs and lows.
Activity Up? Monitor More
When starting an exercise plan or increasing your physical activity, pay close attention to your blood sugar levels. Lower caloric intake and added physical activity can cause your blood sugar levels to drop. As your body becomes healthier, it becomes more sensitive to insulin; as a result, you may need to modify your management plan with your healthcare professional. Now that’s a great goal for the year!