Start the New Year off healthy and happy!

Every year, many of us make New Year’s resolutions, but by as early as Valentine’s Day those lifestyle changes are long forgotten.  So if you want to succeed, you really need a plan. 

Central Florida Regional Hospital offers many programs to support you and your goals toward a healthier 2010. 

Diet:  Let’s face it diet is usually one of the most popular resolutions, yet the easiest to break.  The key is a healthy balance of grains, vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy, and protein and limiting foods and beverages high in added sugar or solid fat including cookies, cake, ice cream, potato chips, French fries, soda and specialty coffee drinks. 

Join us for the free Heart Smart Nutrition Class Wednesday, Jan. 6 from 3-4 p.m.  Call for more information: 407-321-4500, ext. 5780.  Another class is scheduled for Jan. 16.

Exercise:  It’s definitely harder to get back into shape after the holidays, but now is the time to get a regular exercise routine in place.  National health and exercise organizations recommend moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.  Doctors recommend you maintain a healthy weight with a body mass index below 25.

Exercise helps keep your body healthy and can also help ward off many diseases including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis.

Get a physical:  Depending on your age or health conditions, you may need to consult with your physician before starting an exercise program.  And even if you’re feeling healthy, it’s important to get an annual physical exam to help ensure that you stay that way.

Our free Consult-A-Nurse service can help answer your questions or find you a doctor.  Call 1-800- 445-3392 for more information.

Relax and reduce stress:  After the holidays is the perfect time to relax and unwind.  Many of us often feel stressed, and that can contribute to many health conditions including coronary artery disease, stroke, immune disorders, diabetes, eating disorders and sleep disturbances.

The National Mental Health Association offers tips to reduce stress including being realistic, learning to say no, slowing down and meditating.  

Central Regional Florida Hospital offers a great option for meditation and relaxation.  We have yoga classes every Monday & Thursday 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the Lake Mary Senior Center, 911 Wallace Ct.  The class is open to all levels with focus on flexibility, strength and balance.   It’s free for H2U members and $6 for non-members. For more information, call 407-302-7385.

Spend time with friends:  The New Year is a good opportunity to make the effort to get out with your friends.  Being active and having the support of friendship can also improve your health.  Our H2U (Health, Happiness, You) program also offers social activities and travel including day trips, lunch outings, movies, theater, parties, member meetings, overnight travel, cruises and more. 

Join H2U for only $15 a year by clicking here.

Check your cholesterol:  If you haven’t had your cholesterol checked recently, there’s no time like the present.  Several factors increase your chance of having high cholesterol including age, family history, obesity, high-fat diet and a sedentary lifestyle.

Central Florida Regional Hospital will offer a free cholesterol screening on February 27 as part of our Heart Month Celebration.  Look for registration details later this month.

For more information about any of our programs, visit our website at www.CentralFloridaRegional.com.