Health and Fitness: Spring Into Health With WIN

Spring can be a rejuvenating time of the year. The weather becomes warmer, the sun shines longer and the motivation to step outside and breathe the fresh air kicks in.

So, why not use that extra motivation to jump-start your health?

Taking better care of yourself doesn't have to be a grueling process. People often associate healthy eating and exercise with pain and suffering. However, simple changes to your eating and physical activity habits can make the process easier. The Weight-control Information Network (WIN), a program that provides the general public, health professionals, the media and Congress with up-to-date, science-based information on weight control, obesity, physical activity and related nutritional issues, suggests these tips to put you on the fast track to better health.

Be active.

More sunlight from the longer days may make it easier to incorporate physical activity into your schedule.

Walk, walk, walk.

Start a walking program. Walking is one of the easiest ways to be physically active. You can do it almost anywhere and at any time. Take advantage of the warmer weather and go for a walk at lunch or after dinner.

Energize your chores.

Build physical activity into your daily routine. Shape up your garden or put some energy into your spring cleaning. In this way you can get your work done while adding physical activity to your day.

Fill your tank.

Start every day with breakfast. Try oatmeal, a whole-grain cereal like raisin bran with fat-free or low-fat milk, whole-wheat toast spread with jam, or fat-free yogurt.

Become fruitful.

Enjoy the delicious fruits and vegetables spring has to offer. Asparagus, mangos, carrots and spinach are all in season.

Snack healthy.

When you want a snack, try fruits and vegetables. Keep a bowl of fruit on the table, bags of mini carrots in the refrigerator and boxes of raisins in the cupboard.

Stay on track.

Keep track of your progress by writing down your goals and what you have done each day. Seeing your progress in black and white may help keep you motivated through spring and into summer.

About WIN

The Weight-control Information Network (WIN) is an information service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health (NIH). WIN was established in 1994 to provide the general public, health professionals, the media, and Congress with up-to-date, science-based information on obesity, weight control, physical activity, and related nutritional issues. WIN also developed the Sisters Together: Move More, Eat Better national initiative to encourage Black women to maintain a healthy weight by becoming more physically active and eating healthier foods.

For more information and health tips, visit www.win.niddk.nih.gov.

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