Now that a global pandemic and mass social distancing orders are being relaxed, many have found the extra time spent at home and away from regular activities has also added a few extra pounds to their frame. With obesity being an epidemic itself, it’s important to work toward getting those extra pounds off so you can feel better overall and stay as healthy as possible. 

Now that warm weather is here and the spring season makes outdoor activities more comfortable, it’s the perfect time to plan for better health. Improve the quality of foods you eat, cut oversized portions and get moving. All of these things will work together for optimal results. 

With the month of March being National Nutrition Month, we thought it would be a great opportunity to provide you with few tips to help you get healthier this spring. 

Increase Fruit and Vegetable Intake 

One of the easiest ways to start getting better is to increase the number of fruits and vegetable servings you consume daily. Doing so will leave less room on your plate and in your stomach for high-calorie junk food or other snacks. Whether dinner is pizza, a healthy wrap, or a salad, upping the vegetable content of these dishes is a sure way to stay fuller and reduce calories. Find new ways to incorporate fruit in your breakfast meals and even dinners. Try grilling them or adding them to salads for a new flavor kick. 

Add Aerobic and Strength Activities to Your Day 

Even if you have no plans on returning to a gym during these times, you can still find plenty of ways to get in a great workout each day. Especially now as the weather is heating up and we’ll have longer daylight, you can plan fun hikes, bike rides, and even just a walk to get in the appropriate amount of cardiovascular activity. In addition to working out your heart, you’ll want to tone different muscle groups and work on flexibility for your joints. Most adults are recommended to get at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. That’s at least 25 minutes of brisk walking each day for 6 days out of the week. 

In addition to feeling better overall, taking control of your physical health can also help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.