4 Ways to Improve Your Health That Actually Work

There are plenty of reasons to improve your health and wellness, but it is something that is often easier said than done. Instead of falling for the next wellness trend, learn the healthy lifestyle choices that can impact both your physical and emotional well being. Whether you have been diagnosed with a health condition or you are just done with feeling sick or tired all the time, there are effective ways to improve your health.

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

It is easy to fall for fad diets that promise everything from weight loss to glowing skin. However, it is the Mediterranean and DASH diets that consistently rank as the best diets for healthy eating. These are both plant-based plans that encourage plenty of fresh, whole foods without strictly excluding entire food groups. That makes them both easy to follow and highly sustainable. They also provide a wide variety of nutrients, so most people can get the vitamins and minerals they need. Plant-based diets are also linked to gut health, which contributes to reduced incidence of disease and stress levels.

If you aren't able to get the nutrients you need through diet alone, or if you have food allergies or sensitivities, supplementation can be a useful tool. Look for high-quality, natural products that help improve overall health, like the ones available from Unify Health labs. Don't think just because you are taking vitamins that you don't have to watch what you eat. You should still aim to get most of your nutrition because whole food sources for the best health benefits.

2. Get Up and Move

The American Heart Association recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. They also suggest adding at least two sessions of strength training. If you aren't engaged in physical activity for about 30 minutes each day, you probably aren't meeting this goal. Keep in mind that activity doesn't necessarily mean traditional exercise. You can get all the exercise you need with the right mix of fun and challenging activities. A few that you might want to try include:

• Rock climbing, either outdoors or at an indoor climbing center
• Gardening and yard work (no riding mowers allowed)
• Play a few rounds of disc golf at a local park
• Take a day hike with your whole family
• Do a spring (or summer, fall or winter) deep cleaning of your house

3. Go to Bed Earlier

Most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. If you are very active, or you have certain health conditions, you may require even more. Unfortunately, many people aren't getting the sleep they need. Prioritize your sleep by establishing a nighttime routine. This gives your body and mind a chance to unwind and prepare for the restful period ahead. Turn down the lights in your bedroom and cover large mirrors to dampen reflections. Lower the temperature a few degrees. The cooler temps will alert your body that it is time to go to bed. Try to limit alcohol and caffeine use in the late afternoon or evening. It will help you fall asleep faster and stay that way throughout the night. If you are still struggling to fall asleep, try a relaxation technique or white noise to give you an extra assist.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is the one nutrient you simply cannot go more than a few days without. In fact, most people will need to take in about 120 ounces (that's nearly a gallon) of fluid every day. You'll get some of that from food, especially if you are eating a diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, but most will come from drinks. They aren't all created equal, however, so try to stick with plain water whenever you can. Low-fat milk, unsweetened juices and infused waters are a couple of other options that can quench your thirst and replenish nutrients lost throughout the day.

There are plenty of simple ways to improve your overall health. A balanced diet and plenty of water will give you a good foundation. Add some fun exercises and a good night's rest and you will be on your way to a healthier lifestyle.