Skip to main content
915 TLDR
Health
1 read

Five Essential Health Habits for a Better Year Ahead

KVIA••CNN Newsource
Medical stethoscope representing healthcare news

Want the full story?

Read the complete article at KVIA

Read Original

AI Summary

As the new year begins, health expert Dr. Leana Wen emphasizes five key habits that can significantly enhance both physical and mental well-being over time. These include engaging in regular exercise, scheduling annual checkups, ensuring adequate sleep, improving diet by reducing ultraprocessed foods, and fostering social connections. The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, while regular checkups can help detect silent health issues early. Prioritizing sleep and nutrition can prevent chronic diseases, and maintaining strong social ties is crucial for overall health. Adopting these practices can lead to long-term health benefits.

Key Details: • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. • Schedule annual checkups to monitor health risks. • Adults should strive for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. • Reduce intake of ultraprocessed foods for better nutrition. • Cultivate social connections to enhance mental health.

health mental-health wellness exercise nutrition

People & Organizations

CDCDr. Leana Wen

Related Articles

KVIA•Jan 21

It's Not Too Late to Embrace Dry January in El Paso

As January progresses, residents of El Paso may consider starting Dry January, a campaign encouraging a month-long break from alcohol. Health expert Dr. Leana Wen emphasizes that even beginning late in the month can yield significant health benefits, such as improved sleep and mood. The initiative serves as a chance to reflect on personal drinking habits, especially following the holiday season when consumption typically rises. Participants are encouraged to set realistic goals, whether that means complete abstinence or simply reducing intake, and to communicate their plans with friends and family for support.

Health
1 min read
KVIA•Jan 21

Understanding the Best Sleep Positions for Optimal Health in El Paso

Sleep position significantly affects overall health, influencing spinal alignment, breathing, and digestion. Common positions include side, stomach, and back sleeping, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Side sleeping is favored for spinal and digestive health, while back sleeping is considered optimal for posture. Stomach sleeping, although comfortable for some, poses risks for neck and spine health. Individuals experiencing discomfort upon waking should consider adjusting their sleep position. For those with specific health concerns, consulting a doctor is recommended for personalized advice on sleep posture.

Health
1 min read
KVIA•Jan 21

CDC Downplays Measles Outbreak Concerns Amid Rising Cases in Texas

Recent outbreaks of measles across the United States, particularly a significant one in West Texas with 760 cases last year, have raised alarms about the country's elimination status for the virus. However, Dr. Ralph Abraham from the CDC stated that losing this status is not a major concern, emphasizing that vaccination remains the best preventive measure. The CDC reported that 93% of last year's cases were among unvaccinated individuals. The South Carolina outbreak is escalating, with over 500 individuals quarantined after exposure, primarily affecting children. Public health officials warn that the ongoing distrust in vaccinations is contributing to the rapid spread of measles, which is seen as preventable.

Health
1 min read
KTSM•Jan 20

U.S. Faces Measles Elimination Status Threat After Year of Outbreaks

The United States has reached a critical milestone that jeopardizes its measles elimination status, which it held for over 25 years. This comes as the nation marks one year of ongoing measles outbreaks, coinciding with a shift in public health priorities under the current administration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has indicated that these outbreaks are a consequence of reduced focus on infectious diseases. This situation raises concerns about public health and vaccination efforts, particularly in communities with low immunization rates.

Health
1 min read