Many Americans have tried to improve health in some way. However, many people fail to realize that eating less and moving more are not the best ways to achieve good health. Can Americans really change their bad habits? According to the National Institutes of Health, “Yes.”Nobody is too fit, too overweight, or too old to improve their overall health.

However, it is important to remember that old habits can die hard and that fad diets can cause more harm than good. Americans who want to change their habits must be realistic and make gradual changes.

Consider what motivates and has held you back in the past. Also, think about your favorite foods and activities. Next, create a plan. There is no plan. “one-size-fits-all”Approach is key. Set goals that are meaningful to you. It is possible to set goals to eat oatmeal rather than a pastry for breakfast or to park closer to the grocery store whenever you shop.

Track and evaluate your progress once you have created your plan. To help you stay on track, the Weight-control Information Network (WIN), a National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases service, has the following tips:

– Overcome your barriers. Ask for help from family or friends. Ask your coworker to take you on a lunchtime walk if you aren’t able to exercise later in your day. To avoid potential pitfalls, plan ahead. You can avoid pitfalls by planning ahead.

Reward yourself. You can reward yourself with a new book, a new gear, or a relaxing soak in the hot tub after you have achieved a goal. Avoid rewarding yourself with high-calorie treats and time taken from exercising.

– Mix it up. It is easy to become bored by the same routine. So, try out new foods, activities, and rewards.

Avoid setbacks by planning ahead. You should know what activities you can do in adverse weather. Pack healthy snacks and lunch if you know that you will be out and about. You can’t lose hope after a setback. They happen. Just regroup and get back to your goals.

– Increase your goals. Revisit your goals and seek out new challenges. You can add strength training to your fitness if you are able to walk five days a semaine. Reduce your intake of saturated fats by limiting the consumption of refined sugar.

Visit WIN for more information and healthy lifestyle tips www.win.niddk.nih.gov.