Happy New Year! Resolutions for a Healthy Family

The new year is a time for renewed commitments to yourself. The slate is wiped clean of all of the excesses and mistakes of the last year, and hope and optimism abound. Many of us use the new year as an opportunity to make resolutions - promises to ourselves that we're going to be better people, that 2011 is going to be the best year yet, and that we will finally make those lifestyle changes that can be so difficult. Here are three resolutions you can make with your family for healthier kids and a healthier you!

1. Eat more fruits and veggies!
Aim for at least 5 servings a day. It's fun to keep track and you can even make it a competition to see who can get there first! Eat a variety of colors to get an array of different vitamins and minerals. It's easy to add more fresh fruits and veggies to your diet.

2. Get active together!
There are so many fun ways to get active! You can take the dogs for a walk, go to the park and play catch, play active video games, or just dance around in the living room to your favorite tunes! One of our favorite ways to get active in 2011 is the new Memphis Greenline, that gave us seven miles of biking/walking/jogging bliss in 2010. Get out there and get moving!


Photo art courtesy of the Greater Memphis Greenline

 3. Get some sleep!
This sounds like a no-brainer, but research shows that most parents, and a lot of kids, are sleep-deprived. You will be healthier and happier with a good dose of shut-eye. Healthy sleep habits will help your kids grow into happy, energetic, and healthy adults.Happy new year to all of our patients and their families! Stay healthy, happy, and safe in 2011!