Tips for a Healthier New Year

By Dr. David Butler-Jones,
Chief Public Health Officer of Canada

Our health, our happiness, and the well-being of our friends and loved ones are invariably the most important things in our lives. So here’s my list of a few of the very simple things we can all do to help make 2009 a little bit healthier for everyone. 

Eat well and be active

Every year I say this is the obvious one, and it is. But really, we tend to overlook the obvious. Obesity and diabetes are growing problems, but we can make some small changes that add up to have a positive effect on our lives. Think about eating better, cutting out sweet drinks, or snacking on some fruits and vegetables instead of chips. Keep active, even if it's just a few minutes of extra activity each day: stretching, a short jaunt with the dog, parking a few blocks from work, or better yet, cycling to work. It all helps. 

Time well spent

This follows the first point. Nobody’s immune to wanting to spend time on the couch watching TV, or playing some video games, or just hanging around and surfing the net. It’s not always possible, but if you can, consider spending a little more time outside, being active with friends, family, or just on your own getting some fresh air.

A pat on the back

An easy one. Make a habit of mentioning your thanks to people who have done something well, or have helped you or someone else. There's no better gift we can receive than being appreciated.  

Flu Season

Every year, the flu takes a huge toll on people in this country. Few people realize that 4000 to 8000 Canadians die every year from the flu and its complications. So talk to your health professional about getting a flu shot. Remember to cover up your coughs, sneeze into your sleeve, and wash your hands often. Check out fightflu.ca for more information.  

Keep a Healthy Kitchen

Think of how, ideally, you’d like a perfect restaurant to handle your food -- and then do that at home. Wash your hands; just like in the last point, you wouldn’t believe how many things that protects you against. Keep food preparation surfaces clean, cook meats to the proper temperature before serving , and use an ice pack to keep things cool and avoid the growth of bacteria. And don’t forget to wash fruits and vegetables. For more information on food safety.

Lunch well

Pay attention to what kind of lunch you’re packing for yourself and your kids. Check out Canada’s Food Guide for some tips on nutritious lunches. Also, everything in the last point applies here too. Bacteria can and will thrive in a lunchbox if precautions aren’t taken in your kitchen.

Smile and laugh more

This might be the easiest one on the list, but can make a big difference. It's cheap, can make difficult days a little easier, and is contagious. In a good way.  

Be Safe

Winter means icy steps and slippery sidewalks, so please be careful and be aware of the dangers of falling. Indoors, try reducing clutter, installing handrails on stairs, childproofing the family room, upgrading fuse boxes, and installing and checking the batteries on smoke detectors. Outside of your home, please buckle up in the car and wear your helmet on your bike.

Chill out

My favourite. Life can be difficult at times, and we all deal with stress in different ways. So, words to live by: "everything in moderation, including moderation." That means take life seriously, but not so seriously that it becomes a barrier to good mental and physical health. What's more, whatever your circumstances, make the best of them and enjoy life. Be passionate about something, and if you make a mistake don't beat yourself up about it -- find a way to make it better or get someone to help you to do so. We are not on this journey alone.