7 Tips for a healthy lifestlye Dr. Kim Brengle

Detoxes and cleanses (and even diets) are great while they last. But then? They end — and it’s time to celebrate, right? Pizza, cheeseburgers, alcohol — all bets are off (but the pounds are right back on).

Most diet strategies are designed for short-term success. Restrictive plans are just not sustainable for very long in real life (think holidays, vacations, parties, dates, visitors, etc.).

But! There are a number of small changes anyone can make to their daily habits in order to feel better and live longer. Read on to find out how you can find more energy, focus, and happiness starting right now.

1. Eat more (healthy) fat

As in all healthy diets, empty calories and fried foods should be limited. But good fats from foods like avocado, olive oil, fatty fish (like salmon), and nuts are essential for healthy immune function, fat burning, feeling full, and glowing skin.

2. Get enough sleep

Getting enough shut-eye is critical to achieve optimal health and vitality. If you have trouble getting to sleep, try using calming essential oils, eating sleep-promoting foods (like almonds or chamomile tea), or practicing relaxation techniques. You may also need to cut out activities that get in the way of sleep (hint: Netflix marathons).

3. Drink TONS of water

I’m sure you’ve heard this one before, but that’s because it’s so important! Staying properly hydrated will lead to more energy, better skin, and can even help with weight loss.

4. Destress daily

Taking steps to minimize the stress in your life can have profound effects on both your physical and mental wellbeing. Studies have shown that daily meditation can help reduce stress and improve symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Yoga is another powerful choice for stress reduction (as well as a great workout).

5. Get moving

Sitting is the new smoking, as they say. You don’t need to hit the gym every single day, but it’s important to move your body and avoid prolonged periods of sitting.

For those with particularly sedentary lifestyles, I recommend investing in a tool that tracks your steps. This will keep you aware, accountable, and encourage you to move more throughout the day.

6. Take a probiotic

Supplements can be confusing, but this one is simple. The benefits of a healthy gut are clear — from a better mood to a strong immune system.

Take a high-quality probiotic daily to help improve digestion and gut function.

7. READ beauty labels (!!!)

Many women obsess over organic grocery ingredients and then cover themselves in cosmetics and creams filled with chemicals linked to increased risk of cancer. Instead, look for natural and organic brands that use straightforward ingredients you recognize (think coconut oil, lavender, rosewater).

The truth is, good health is incredibly complex. There’s no one-size-fits-all path to achieving long-term health and vitality.

I would be honored to hear your story and work with you to develop a healthy lifestyle that works for you and your goals. Ditch the latest “quick fix” and contact my office today.