With 2021 now behind us, and COVID-19 vaccines readily available, we are looking forward to a brighter year ahead. Throughout the pandemic, one thing has become increasingly clear: life is precious and protecting your health is so important. Memorial Hermann offers tips for living a longer, healthier life.
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Know where you stand. See your primary care physician for a complete physical and a check of your key health statistics, including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and body mass index (BMI).
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Set goals, not resolutions. Choose a small number of goals that are most important to your short- and long-term health and wellbeing. Track your progress and celebrate successes every step of the way.
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Get screened. Early detection is one of the best defenses against serious illness. Screenings for breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, lung, skin and other cancers save lives. Your physician can help determine when and which screenings are right for you.
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Get vaccinated. From chicken pox to whooping cough, vaccines and immunizations protect you and your family from preventable diseases. The COVID-19 vaccines are available and proven safe for adults and children, plus everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine.
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Get moving. Regular exercise should be part of every health plan. Start by walking. It’s good for your physical and mental health. Get your kids involved and walk or play outdoors as a family. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.
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Prioritize mental health. Depression and anxiety have been on the rise during the pandemic. Don’t be afraid to speak up to get the help you need. COVID-19 has taken an emotional toll on kids, too. Their pediatrician is someone they can talk to about what they’re feeling.
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Manage stress. Stress management can have a positive impact on health, both short-term and long-term. Try mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), meditation, gratitude and journaling.
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Eat whole food. Replacing meat and processed foods with fresh fruits and vegetables, chicken, fish, nuts, seeds and whole grains can reduce your risk of cancer and improve your immunity, heart health and longevity.
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Watch food portions. Educate yourself and your family about healthy portion sizes. A portion of meat, poultry or fish is 2-3 ounces, about the size of a deck of cards. And by cooking more meals at home, you can better manage portion sizes.
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Lose excess pounds. Being significantly overweight can lead to life-threatening illnesses, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, heart disease and stroke. Obesity also increases your risk of developing serious complications from COVID-19.
Make a fresh start in 2022. Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor today. To find a physician, visit mhmg.memorialhermann.org or call 832.658.MHMG (6464).