Healthy Weight Week is January 17-23

Published on January 17, 2021

Weld County — It’s time to celebrate the new year, a new you, and a healthy weight. Each year, Healthy Weight Week (January 17-23) focuses on this by encouraging the public to make wellness a lifestyle by consuming nutritious foods and living actively. The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) is encouraging the public to join the cause and celebrate their health by following these tips:

1. Get a Move On: Dance, swim, jog, or take a brisk walk to start the week. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests the average American adult exercise for two hours and 30 minutes per week. Find an aerobic exercise you love, and you won’t want to miss a sweat session.
2. Drink Water: Drinking water when you’re thirsty and with meals can help you keep a normal temperature, feel more focused, and help your body rid itself of waste.
3. Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for six to eight hours of rest each evening. Sleeping not only helps you feel more rejuvenated but also reduces your stress levels. Go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at a similar time each morning to reap the most benefit.
4. Derail Your Stress: There are several ways to overcome the stress and anxiety that can contribute to weight gain. The CDC suggests avoiding drugs and alcohol, confiding in loved ones, participating in social events, eating a well-balanced diet, and becoming active in your community as ways to manage stress.
5. Snack On It: Snacking is imperative for weight management, but you must choose snacks that fuel your body. The CDC suggests choosing fruits and vegetables for snacks since they are low-calorie and filling, like a cup of baby carrots or a banana.
6. Just “Be”: Live in the moment for a few minutes each day. Carving out time in your day to relax and enjoy life is imperative for true happiness.

You can change your lifestyle and get to a healthy weight. Start with small changes, get professional help if necessary, join up with friends, and celebrate your hard work. For more information on resources WCDPHE offers the public to support healthy eating and active living, go to the Health Education Programs webpage.