Top tips on staying healthy

MANILA, Philippines -  “Usually, at the top of Pinoys’ New Year’s resolution list is the pledge to become healthier and fit. That is why many are keen on dropping bad habits and starting a new diet or fitness regimen,” says Dr. Nicky Montoya, president of MediCard Philippines.

Here are some tips on staying healthy throughout the year:

• Stop smoking. Most Pinoys are aware of the bad effects of smoking, but the addictive nature of nicotine in tobacco makes it difficult to quit through willpower alone. Smokers can achieve lasting abstinence from cigarettes through the help of clinical experts in smoking cessation clinics. These treatment centers are specialized to help smokers drop the habit and avoid subsequent relapse by using different techniques, like counselling, telephone and online support, and safe pharmaceutical aids.

• Lose weight and be fit. Due to the extra pounds most of us gained from the holidays, it’s natural to develop a strong desire to get a leaner body by the start of the year. You can achieve your fitness goals by following a healthy eating plan and exercise routine. Simple daily habits, like eating meals in small portions and doing a 30-minute jog, can set us off to a great start.

• Look and feel young. We grow older every year, but we can always delay the signs of aging by taking care of our skin. Drinking adequate amounts of water and getting enough sleep can keep our body hydrated and repair cell damage. Wearing enough sunscreen and moisturizers can also minimize wrinkles, skin dryness, sagging, age spots, and even prevent skin cancers.

• Socialize more. Bonding with family and friends can uplift your mood and keep you from feeling depressed. Thus, find time to socialize with other people despite your busy schedule. There’s always an opportunity to reach out to others — from talking to your loved ones at home to lunching out with your colleagues at work to hanging out with friends on weekends. Meeting new people and making new friends also develop your interpersonal skills and maturity.

• Avoid stress. Stress is almost impossible to avoid, but there are ways to manage it and feel more relaxed. These include organizing your daily schedule, simplifying your activities and begging off from unnecessary commitments. Exercising, eating healthy, and staying in a relaxing environment can also put your mind at ease. Nurture optimism and tolerance so you don’t get easily upset by unfavorable situations and difficult people.

“Personal goals, especially those that focus on our health and well-being, are easy to start, but can be difficult to sustain if they are unrealistic. The key to achieving our health goals and maintaining them is to take the transformation slowly and enjoy the process,” advises Dr. Montoya.

The MediCard Lifestyle Center is a modern edifice in the heart of Makati that offers diverse clinical, dental, and specialty services. To know more about its services, visit http://mlc.medicardphils.com.