FORT WALTON BEACH — In 2016, Okaloosa County residents will decide which resolutions they want to focus on.
The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County wants residents to think of ways to make themselves and their families healthier.
“The start of a new year is always a good time to start making healthier choices,” said Dr. Karen A. Chapman, DOH-Okaloosa director. “Making small steps now can prevent chronic disease such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer later in life.”
Here are 3 tips to stay healthy:
Remember 5210: Eat five or more fruits and vegetables every day; limit daily recreational screen (TV, computer and tablet) time to two hours or less; be physically active at least one hour every day; cut back on sugar-sweetened beverages; and eliminate use of and exposure to tobacco and nicotine products.
The potential benefits associated with eating a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables can include reducing your risk of certain chronic diseases.
Another easy way to be healthier is substituting water for sugar-sweetened beverages full of calories.
Limit screen time and add physical fitness: The lack of physical activity, poor nutrition and increased media consumption contribute to emerging health issues.
Limit daily recreational screen time to two hours or less. Fill in the extra time doing something that will keep you physically active.
The benefits of being physically active include reducing risk of heart disease, diabetes and some cancers; strengthening bones and muscles; improving mental health and the ability to do daily activities; and prevent falls.
Cut tobacco use. Quitting smoking can add up to 10 years to life expectancy. The health benefits begin almost immediately after the last cigarette and continue for years if you quit for good.
Tobacco Free Florida provides free resources for smokers to access. Call 1-877-U-CAN-NOW to speak with a TFF Quit Coach who will help you assess your addiction and help you create a personalized quit plan.
The TFF cessation website is www.tobaccofreeflorida.com/webcoach.
In-person help is available at the West Florida Area Health Education Center, 1455 S. Ferdon Blvd., Suite B-1, Crestview. Call 398-6965 for details.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Okaloosa health department's 3 tips to stay healthy in 2016