There are essential themes of behaviors that go a long way to achieving optimum health. These behaviors allow you to lower your risk of getting some cancers, including cardiac diseases, increasing your risk of stroke, developing diabetes as well as having bone density issues such as osteoporosis. So here are a few things to encourage you to take control of your health and encourage those around you to do the same. We've outlined a few steps for you here. 

Keep A Healthy Weight 

Making sure that your weight is not steadily creeping up can be a challenge especially as you get older. Here are a few simple tips that can help- take the opportunity to burn extra calories as often as you can. Whether that be getting off one stop early on your commute and walking the rest of the way or taking your dog on a different & more scenic dog walk there is always an opportunity to get more steps incorporate into your day. If you are already overweight, try to take steps not to get any larger. Look at what and how you are eating and use that to take steps to remove a minimum of 500 calories from your diet a day. Eat a diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and healthy grains, quit snacking on junk food and fizzy drinks and see your health improve exponentially. 

Exercise Often 

It's recommended that we get a minimum of 30 minutes exercise a day but with people working longer than ever before and having extremely busy lives, its no wonder that the majority of adults are not getting enough exercise. It is useful to note that many things count as exercise- from hiking, dancing, rock climbing and  ice-skating these are all great fun way to get you up and off the couch and having fun while doing it. 

Quit Cigarettes 

We all know that smoking is bad for us. Reports have shown that quitting smoking is absolutely one of the best things you can do if you want to improve your quality of life. From hypnotherapy, cessation tablets and even talking therapies there are hundreds of resources out there to help you or a loved one quit the habit. Don't give up on your first try as it is reported that it can take up three tries to stop smoking for good. Use something you look forward to as an incentive, and see how much money you can save. 

Know The Importance of Oral Health 

Studies have shown that people with poor oral hygiene are more likely to suffer from cancers of the mouth and throat. Say no to cancer by keeping on to of your dentist appointments. Check online for your area's leading dentist and say no to cavities, bad breath and rotten teeth. 

Lay Off The Booze 

Moderate drinking has been recommended to use for years. It’s advisable not to drink more than a few units a week to maintain optimum health. If you think that you drink too much and may have a problem stopping contact your GP as they will be able to help. 

Those are just a few tips to follow in order to stay healthy this year.

by contributing author