By: Alison Licquia MS, RDN, CD

How many of you vowed to make lots of great changes in 2017? Someone once told me, New Year’s resolutions are like babies: They’re fun to make but extremely difficult to maintain. That could not be more true! Roughly 1/3 of Americans resolve to better themselves in some way. A much smaller percentage of people actually make good on those resolutions. While about 75% of people stick to their goals for at least a week, less than half (46%) are still on target six months later, a 2002 study found. So how do we set and keep our new year’s resolutions so we feel accomplished and successful in our efforts?? Here are some tips and tricks on how to achieve your lofty or not so lofty new year’s resolutions:

1. If you plan to lose weight like pretty much every American, do not expect it to happen overnight. We all want results yesterday, but you need to plan for bumps in the road. Use a food journal to keep track of what you eat and have a support system in place. You may find it easy to justify having a “free day” or just a bite, but your support system will keep you on track!

2. Quitting smoking can be extremely difficult. Especially if you’ve tried multiple times in the past and have been unsuccessful. You are not alone! Talk to any ex-smoker if you don’t believe me! Try different methods to find out what will work for you And just think of all the money you’ll save! Money is definitely a motivating factor for me! For a successful ’stop smoking’ resolution, enroll in the next “Quit Tobacco” class at the Tri-Cities Cancer Center. Call 737-3427 to reserve your spot.

3. With the holiday bills around the corner stress levels are rising. Stress can cause lots of other health concerns including insomnia, depression, obesity and heart disease if not addressed properly. Don’t get me wrong a little pressure now and again won’t kill us, but too much in this case is not a good thing! Long work hours, little sleep, no exercise, poor diet, and  not spending time with family and friends can contribute to stress. Relaxation, sleep, socializing, and taking vacations are all
things we tell ourselves we deserve but don’t allow ourselves to have. So take that vacation you’ve always wanted!

4. Next month is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month. If you would like to lessen your chance of getting colorectal cancer, please consider these four resolutions:
1. Limit your alcohol intake.
2. Reduce the amount of red meat in your diet and avoid processed meats.
3. Eat more green leafy vegetables
4. Visit BeHealthyGetScreened.com and sign up for the Colorectal Cancer Pre-Screening event!