Basic Rules for Good Health

Good Health Tips from Dr. Anita Haque, chiropractor in Livermore

With the New Year, many of you set goals for better health. Here are some helpful ideas. Most importantly, BE REALISTIC! Exercising 2 hours a day or starving yourself should not be considered realistic (or healthy) and cannot be maintained long term. Small, consistent changes will make all the difference and are far easier to stick to. Always feel free to ask us for any guidance you may need … that is what we are here for!

Do Not Overeat

Small meals eaten only when hungry are the healthiest practice. Breakfast is considered by many to be the most important meal of the day. If you are one of those who does not feel hungry in the morning, a very simple rule to follow is this: Never eat more at dinner than you ate at breakfast, i.e.: if you ate no breakfast, eat no dinner. I can guarantee you will be hungry the next morning. Eat in a calm and peaceful environment. It is better not to eat when you are upset or uptight. It is also better not to eat while watching TV. Eat slowly and stop when you are full.

Control Your Fats

To loose weight you must watch the fat content of your food. The average American derives 35-50% of their calories from fat. Limit your heavy creams, processed foods, red meat, cheese, sugar and food fried in fat or grease. Eat natural and organic whenever possible.

Avoid White (simple) Carbohydrates

Eat good quality carbohydrates, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, whole grain cereals, etc. Avoid white rice, white pasta, white sugar, etc. Not all carbohydrates are bad. Remember everything in moderation.

Rest and Relax

Learn to get complete relaxation and rest to allow the body its required time to recuperate from the daily stress we place it under. The body also releases hormones while you sleep that help control appetite. Allow yourself 7-8 hours of sleep a night.

Exercise

Daily exercise is probably the one single missing ingredient after poor diet that causes bad health in our society. Make a contract with yourself today to get into a daily habit of exercise and, if possible, combine it with fresh air and sunshine. Even if you do not have a tremendous amount of time to dedicate to exercise, consistent efforts do pay off.

Get Adjusted

Because of its focus on the nervous system, chiropractic care can be an important part of a wellness lifestyle. The nervous system controls the function of virtually every aspect of our lives. Studies have shown that people under regular chiropractic care have twice the immune system function of a normal person and four times that of a sick person. Maintaining a properly functioning nervous system is essential if you want to be your very best. The pleasant result is often more vitality, endurance, and the capacity to enjoy life to its fullest.