5 Simple Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle

When it comes to making positive changes in our lives, we’re often more likely to come up with reasons they can’t be done, rather than how to make them happen. But many times the only thing that's stopping us is ourselves. Try small changes and give them a chance. You might be surprised how easy they can insinuate themselves into your life and make things better.

Here are 5 easy changes you can start doing this week:

• Avoid processed foods. When you look at a food label and realize that you probably couldn’t make that food at home because you have no FD&C Red No. 40 or sodium phosphates in your pantry, then that's a food you shouldn't eat.
• Studies show that wearing a pedometer or activity tracker make the wearer more aware and they really do move more. Try one of those, or download an app like Human to your phone.
• Have you had any back pain recently? Tight muscles? Poor endurance? Stretching exercises are good for these ailments and many more, including reducing cholesterol in the body. Try this video or one of the many others available on YouTube.
• Make some soup! Soup is healthy, easy to prepare, great for lunches, and it's easy to make large batches and freeze some for later. Here are some soup recipes to get you started.
• Did you know the blue light emitted from electronic devices restrains the production of melatonin? Plus it doesn't help if your pals are texting you half the night. Turn off the cell phones and get some sleep.

Here's to you and your health!