Get Ready for Resolution Season

Are you going to make a resolution?

Do you make New Year’s resolutions?  If your plan for 2013 includes weight loss, better eating habits or a new exercise program, start off on the right foot by connecting with your health care provider.  Gather essential information that will help you set and reach reasonable goals.

4 Questions to Ask Your Doctor

1. Do I need to lose weight?  Your doctor will be able to talk to you about your BMI or body mass index.  This number will help you decide if you should shed a few pounds.
2. How will weight loss improve my health?  If you understand the benefits of healthier eating habits, an exercise program or weight loss, it might help you to stick to the program when the going gets tough .
3. How much weight should I lose?  In some cases, just a small amount of weight loss can have a significant impact on your health.  Knowing the answer to this question may help you to set a reasonable goal.
4. Am I healthy enough to exercise?  Before you start a new exercise program, find out if you are in good shape to do aerobic activity, strength training and stretching.  Your provider may have specific guidelines for you to follow.

Make an appointment today to get the answers to these questions.  Then connect with the North Memorial Healthy Weight Loss program online and on Facebook to get daily reminders and tips to keep your plan on track

Have a Peaceful Holiday

Enjoy your family during the holidays.

I wish all of my readers a happy and healthy holiday.  Enjoy the day’s festivities without worrying about your weight.  Be thankful for friends and family and just relax.

If the weather cooperates, I will be spending the day cross country skiing and cooking.  I will also take some time to be thankful for my wonderful family, including my son (pictured with me).

Peace,

Malia

Last Minute Gift Ideas

Give healthy holiday gifts (source: alvimann/morguefile)

If you still have holiday shopping to do, this blog is for you.  Use these gift ideas to fill your friend or family member’s stocking with a something that shows how much you value their health and well-being.

3 Healthy Gift Ideas

• Shoe fitting and new shoes.  If your loved one enjoys healthy activity, get them a new pair of walking or running shoes.  Set up a time to take them to a local vendor where they will be properly fitted.  Marathon Sports in Minneapolis, for example, provides a comprehensive 26.2 Fitting Plan that will help them find the best shoe for their body and their activity level.

• Roasted Almonds.  Almonds are a healthy treat.  They are packed with healthy protein and mono and polyunsaturated fat.  Your best bet for good nutrition is the unsalted variety.  A small decorated tin of the nuts makes a great stocking stuffer.

• Three Rivers Park District – Cross Country Ski Lessons.  Encourage your loved one to get out and enjoy the area’s parks during the winter months.  Offer to sign them up for cross country ski lessons through the Three Rivers Park District.  Cross country skiing is easy on the joints, a great way to get a cardiovascular workout and a good way to build strength and stability, too.   Beginners are welcome and there are plenty of classes for newbies.

Stay connected to healthy tips, recipes and advice in the new year. Learn how to start an exercise program on the North Memorial Medical Center’s Healthy Weight Loss Program website, subscribe to the blog, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.