10 Steps for a Healthier Lifestyle
It’s never too late to commit to a new you. The beginning of a new year can be a great start, but taking the time to focus on your health and happiness can be done anytime. At Moffitt Cancer Center, we treat and cure all types of cancer leading to better outcomes. Living a healthy lifestyle can help with prevention, healing and a better quality of life.
Here are 10 tips on how to start down the road to a healthier life.
1. Get Moving: You don't have to be a fitness guru to be healthy. Small changes can have a big impact on your health. Fit in a walk by parking a little further away or take the stairs instead of the elevator.
2. Eat A Rainbow: As it turns out, mom was right. Eating your vegetables helps you grow strong and healthy and can also lower your risk of different types of cancer.
3. Drink Water: Water is important to the mechanics of the human body. More water equals better health. Start small by replacing one soda with a glass of water.
4. Sun Safety: Keep your skin protected and limit your exposure to UV rays by applying sunscreen, slipping on a hat, wearing sunglasses and seeking a shady spot when you’re outdoors.
5. Quit Smoking: Take that first step to quit smoking. Did you know five years after you quit smoking, your risk of bladder, mouth, throat and esophagus cancer is cut in half? Check out our calendar for Tools to Quit classes held at Moffitt.
6. Arm Yourself: The flu season can last as late as May, so if you’ve put off getting your flu shot, there’s still time. The Centers for Disease Control recommends anyone 6 months or older be vaccinated. Speaking of shots, the HPV vaccine is a proven way to prevent an infection that can lead to cervical, anal, penile and orpharyngeal cancers, yet approximately 50 percent of girls and 65 percent of boys in the U.S. have not received the three-shot series.
7. Schedule Screenings: The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get screenings for the early detection of cancer. Screenings increase the chances of detecting certain cancers early, when they are most likely to be curable. See a list of cancer screening guidelines and schedule yours today.
8. All About You: Don’t ignore your body. Many people disregard symptoms, thinking they are the results of other conditions. Get familiar with your body so you can identify any abnormal changes and inform your doctor right away.
9. Sleep Well: The hustle and bustle of our lives can be exhausting, but don't skimp on sleep. Our bodies use sleep to regulate and heal cells. You need a minimum of six hours sleep to take advantage of the healing REM phases of rest.
10. Laughter is the best medicine: Laughter and exercise may share more in common than you think -- most notably, both can boost your health. Laughing can reduce stress levels and it's a fun workout for your abdominals.
If you or someone you know would like more information on cancer prevention tips or has a concern, call 1-888-MOFFITT or schedule an appointment online.