Get A Head Start Into 2021

5 ideas to kickstart a healthy new year

Most of us wait until New Year's Eve to come up with a list of things that we want to change. Starting the process early gives you more time to think through what’s right for you and make lasting changes.

Here are 5 ideas to kickstart a healthy new year ahead of schedule.

1. Increase your intake of fibre

Fibre promotes weight loss, lowers blood sugar levels and fights constipation.

Over Christmas, it’s easy to indulge in a low-fibre diet that’s high in sugar, fats and alcohol. Now is the time to be kind to your gut.

Your gut bacteria love fibre. They produce short-chain fatty acids that support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and aid in preventing disease. The easiest way to increase your intake of fibre is to drink a glass of green juice every day.

The alkaline juice offsets the effects of acidic inflammatory foods.

Try to experiment with new fruits and vegetables. A diverse range of fibre produces a diverse range of gut bacteria. This translates into a more balanced and happy gut.

Most of us stock up on excessive fruit and veg over Christmas, some of which gets thrown out. On your mission to increase your intake of nutrients, use the excess vegetables to make soup.

Soup can be frozen and defrosted quickly to provide a nourishing snack. Similarly, extra fruit can make delicious smoothies which will refresh and recharge your body.

2. Increase your activity

Perhaps you don't have time for a long workout. Just aim to keep active. This might involve a short walk in the fresh air, some cleaning, decorating or perhaps something as simple as bounding up the stairs.

Exercise doesn't have to be vigorous, but be aware that every movement you make helps your brain. Exercise raises the heart rate and supplies the brain with more oxygen, as well as stimulating the growth of new connections between cells in important areas of the brain.

3. Supplements

Consider taking supplements. Vitamin D, C and Zinc can be very helpful. Perhaps organise to have blood tests done to check markers for inflammation or any deficiencies. This is not a medical site, so please check with your doctor before making any changes.

4. Sleep

Over Christmas, we can diverge from our usual sleeping patterns. Over the next few days, try to ease back into a more normal routine, going to bed and getting up at the same time every day. This will help to stabilise your body clock. Good quality sleep is essential for overall health.

5. Make time for yourself

Watch the sunrise. Enjoy a cup of tea before others wake up. Contemplate the good things in your life and be grateful for them.

Wishing you all a bright, healthy, energetic and extremely Happy New Year.