New Year's Resolutions

If you’re like most people, you’re planning resolutions to better yourself in one way or another—and the most frequently cited New Year’s resolutions are to lose excess weight, to eat healthily and to get fit so that you look and feel better.

Unfortunately, for many people, those are the same resolutions that go by the wayside at the beginning of February, which paves the way for yet another year of unattained goals. Truth be told, most people find themselves at the close of the year exactly where they started  the year—with no progress made. It doesn't have to be that way, though, because you have a clean slate and can make a health revolution—instead of a resolution—to give you a lifetime of wellness.

I’ve always said that we need to eat to live, instead of living to eat, and this holds true for people no matter what their age. For example, those in their 30s are typically living life in the fast lane, but may notice an expanding waistline, a loss in muscle tone, decreased energy levels and a sense that there just aren't enough hours in a day to accomplish all they’re expected to do—including eating right.

Eating healthy proteins such as organic grassfed meats and cultured dairy as well as fruits and vegetables is always wise, but can be especially healthy during this decade. For women, bone mass loss begins during the 30s, so adding cultured dairy products for calcium and vitamin D is a smart choice. For men, heart health becomes more of a concern in the late 30s, so include heart-healthy foods packed with omega-3s in your diet.

For those in their 40s, increased job responsibilities combine with complex family demands to develop a pivotal decade that can determine your health status over the next few decades. That’s why it’s crucial to pay extra attention to diet and lifestyle choices—because it can determine how healthily you live out the rest of your life. Women, eat for hormonal balance, bone and heart health. Include grassfed beef healthy dairy, flaxseeds, fermented foods, enzyme-filled nuts and seeds, and fresh vegetables and fruits. Men, eat healthy proteins and healthy fats, including grassfed beef, healthy dairy, nuts and seeds and veggies.

Next up, whether you’re an empty nester, grandparent or are changing careers, staying healthy in your nifty 50s pays off.  Women, select a diet rich in omega-3s, calcium and vitamin D. Men, bolster your strength, heart health and overall health by maintaining a healthy weight and eating a diet rich in healthy proteins and fats and make sure you get enough B vitamins, vitamin E, selenium, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids.

During your 60s and beyond, eat powerful foods with nutrients that many folks who are 60+ fall short of. Get enough complete proteins and healthy fats; crucial vitamins (Vitamin E, C, D and B6), minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron), and antioxidants (such as Vitamin C, E, A and polyphenols, bioflavonoids, carotenoids, beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene and selenium). Digestion may also be sluggish, so eat foods rich in probiotics, enzymes and fiber.

So, as you’re getting ready to make your New Year resolutions—and no matter what your age or life stage—make a health revolution, and get healthy for a lifetime.

Have a happy and safe New Year, everyone!

Dr. Brandon Mannie B.S., D.C.

Natural Health Solutions

www.AppleValleyWellness.com

14698 Galaxie Ave

Apple Valley, MN 55124