January can be a dangerous month for health: fad diets, extreme cleanses and the word ‘detox’ are everywhere. This year, we say stop the madness: instead of dropping the pounds or cleansing your system, make your beauty resolution about well-being. Focus on giving your body the nourishment it needs, and we guarantee you’ll finish January feeling healthier than ever.
Don’t punish your body
Even if you’ve royally fallen off the bandwagon over Christmas (who doesn’t?!), don’t put yourself on a hugely restrictive diet this month; after a season of decadence, your body isn’t going to respond well to suddenly being deprived. Cutting out everything quickly is also not great for your mental well-being, and you’re likely to end up binge eating. Instead, take a softly-softly approach and cut one unhealthy thing a week – it’s much easier to keep up the habit.
Eat your 10 a day
Experts say that around 70% of your diet should be plant-based, i.e. vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. If this sounds like a lot to you, try working around the 10-a-day rule. Instead of 5 portions of fruit and veg a day, try for 10 – stick to 3 portions of fruit, and 7 of vegetables. You’ll find that your body will benefit from all the extra nutrients you’re putting into it, and you won’t have much room left in your diet for unhealthy snacks! Pair your veggies with lean meats such as chicken and fish, and choose organic produce where possible.
Get enough sleep
Going back to work after the holidays is always stressful, so no doubt you’re finding that you’re staying up later at night to watch one more episode of something on Netflix, or get one more drink in the pub. This month, why not focus on making sure you’re getting truly restful sleep? Getting a proper rest is crucial to feeling balanced and healthy, especially at Winter when the days are darker. If you need help catching your forty winks, keep an eye on the Latest in Beauty blog – we’ll be posting a guide later this month.
Spend some time in the sun
Just 15 minutes a day in the sunshine can work wonders for your body. You’ll be getting your daily dose of Vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption, and sunlight can also boost your immune system and help clear skin. Don’t get us wrong, we’re not saying you should spend hours sunbathing every day, but taking the time to get outside when you can is a great way to boost your health. Just remember the SPF!
