Making 2015 Your Healthiest Year Yet

By Jane Farrell

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to lose weight. But that’s not the only health-related promise you can make at the start of 2015. Here, from the federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC), are some crucial things you can do for yourself and your family to make this the healthiest New Year ever:

Wash hands often to help prevent the spread of germs. It’s flu season. Use soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds, the CDC says.

Manage stress. If you’re overwhelmed or exhausted, make yourself feel better by finding social support and getting enough sleep. Additionally, you can learn to meditate or do yoga or tai chi.

Don’t drink and drive—and don’t let others drink and drive. The consequences can be devastating. Whenever anyone drives drunk, they put everyone on the road in danger.

Dress appropriately. In cold weather, the CDC says, wear light, warm layers plus gloves, hats scarves and waterproof boots. (Editor’s note: Dress right in warmer weather, too, with light-colored, loose clothing.)

Be smoke-free. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. Smokers have greater health risks because of their tobacco use, but nonsmokers also are at risk when exposed to tobacco smoke.

Fasten seat belts while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Always buckle your children in the car using a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt according to their height, weight, and age. Buckle up every time, no matter how short the trip and encourage passengers to do the same.

Get the vaccinations, screenings and tests you need. Update your personal health history. The CDC also suggests getting health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace if you don’t have it.

Monitor children. Keep grandkids away from potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items, and other objects. Careful monitoring can also protect kids from drowning, falls and other accidents.

Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months, the CDC says, so don’t leave fireplaces, space heaters, food cooking on stoves, or candles unattended. Have an emergency evacuation plan.

Practice food safety. Wash hands and surfaces, prevent cross-contamination, and cook foods to the right temperature. Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Eat healthy. Fruits and vegetables have myriad health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease. high in fat, salt, and sugar.

Exercise! The CDC recommends being active for at least 2.5 hours per week.

For more information on health and safety, visit http://www.cdc.gov/.