10 Simple Health Tips for 2016

There is a constellation of factors that will determine your health. Your body, mind and environment are all important variables — your genetic makeup is only part of the equation.

Aside from the obvious things such as no smoking and go easy on the alcohol, I believe there are some very simple things you can incorporate into your daily life in order to live a healthier, happier year.

Here's my list:

1. Be mindful in what you consume. Eat less meat and more fruits, vegetable and nuts. Eating too much red meat is bad for you and the planet. Chances are if something is not good for the environment, then it’s not good for you either.
2. Drink less cow's milk — try alternative sources instead. Cow’s milk is for baby cows.
3. Drink lots and lots of purified water. Mounting research suggests that we’re consuming more than just water; pesticide residue, pharmaceutical drugs, heavy metals and a plethora of other carcinogens have all been found in drinking water.
4. Limit consumption of ultra-processed foods, sugar and drinking soda. Many types of chips, cookies, cereals, etc., are chock-full of preservatives, artificial flavors, colors and the worst stuff of all — high fructose corn syrup.
5. Be sure to see your doctor and dentist regularly. Never minimize any lingering aches, pains or any other unusual health issues. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
6. Do not use toxic cleaning supplies. You can clean pretty much anything with baking soda, vinegar, salt and essential oils. It is less expensive, better for you and better for the environment.
7. Stay away from plastic — it’s full of phthalates and other petrochemical byproducts. Don’t use it to microwave foods in and don’t drink water from it. Use glass or stainless steel containers instead.
8. Exercise regularly in order to maintain a healthy weight. Make yourself a priority. If you have time to watch TV then you have time to exercise.
9. Consume probiotics. Research shows that your immunity begins in your gut and probiotics help support it.
10. Meditate often. Meditation has been shown to affect gene expression.

Have a happy and healthy 2016! Georgia M. HurstFounder and Executive Director of ihavelynchsyndrome.com (501c3)