Small Ways to Improve Your Health

Living a Healthier Life: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

When it comes to living a healthier lifestyle, it’s all about making small changes that add up to big improvements. Registered Dietician Sherry Ogasawara and Prince George Family YMCA Centre Manager Shannon Johnson share some valuable tips for incorporating healthier habits into your daily routine.

Eating Well

According to Ogasawara, the best meal is a home-cooked one, but she understands that not everyone has the time or inclination to cook every day. She suggests starting with something simple, like a pasta meal with a side salad and some bread. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your overall health.

Ogasawara also advises against fad diets, emphasizing that adding healthy elements to your diet is more effective than trying to eliminate everything at once. Adding more plant protein, vegetables, fruits, and water to your diet can have a positive impact on your overall well-being.

As for meal timing, Ogasawara recommends sticking to three balanced meals a day and avoiding intermittent fasting. For those who enjoy snacking, she suggests balanced options like cheese and crackers with vegetables to keep energy levels up between meals.

Getting Active

Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can be daunting, but Johnson encourages taking small steps to make it more manageable. Even short bursts of cardiovascular exercise throughout the day can have a positive impact on heart health, blood pressure, and mood.

Physical activity doesn’t have to be limited to the gym. Simple activities like short walks, playing with pets, and basic home exercises can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. With a wealth of online resources for easy workouts, dancing, and yoga, there are plenty of options for staying active at home.

While Johnson advocates for home-based exercise, she also stresses the importance of seeking credible information and doing thorough research, especially when following online fitness content.

For those who find the gym intimidating, Johnson recommends exploring group programs and personal training options to find activities that align with personal interests. The key, she says, is to choose activities that are enjoyable and sustainable.

Ultimately, living a healthier lifestyle is about making progress, not perfection. Both Ogasawara and Johnson emphasize the value of finding small changes that work for you and incorporating them into your daily routine in a way that feels natural and sustainable.