With help from the Centers for Disease Control, Virginia Women’s Center has compiled the following tips. Chances are you already know what to do. Sometimes a reminder comes in handy. Other times you may need more help. That’s what our physicians, nurse practitioners, registered dietitians and other staff members are here for.

1) Eat Healthy
Sure it’s easier said than done, but start with the basics: An apple a day keeps the doctor away. What you eat ---and drink ---and what you don’t eat and drink can definitely make a difference to your health. Eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day and less saturated fat can help improve your health and may reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. Have a balanced diet, and watch how much you eat.

Could it be time for you to consult with a Virginia Women’s Center registered dietitian? To learn more, click here.

2) Keep a Healthy Weight
Another one that’s easier said than done, but pulling the covers over our heads isn’t going to make it go away. Obesity is at an all time high in the United States, and the epidemic may be getting worse. Those who are overweight have increased risks for diseases and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Eat better, get regular exercise, and see your health care provider about any health concerns to make sure you are on the right track to staying healthy.

Not sure where to start? Consult with a Virginia Women’s Center registered dietitian. To learn more, click here.

3) Be Active
Does chasing a toddler count? More than 50 percent of American men and women do not get enough physical activity to provide health benefits. For adults, 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week is recommended. It doesn’t take a lot of time or money, but it does take commitment. Start slowly, work up to a satisfactory level, and don’t overdo it. You can develop one routine, or you can do something different every day. Find fun ways to stay in shape and feel good, such as dancing, gardening, cutting the grass, swimming, walking, or jogging. And get your family to join you --- an active family is a healthy and happy family.

4) Be Smoke Free
This one is non-negotiable. If you smoke, you need to quit---and you know you do. Consult with your health-care provider about effective ways to quit smoking. Helplines, counseling, medications, and other forms of support are available to help you quit. Health concerns associated with smoking include cancer, lung disease, early menopause, infertility and pregnancy complications. Smoking triples the risk of dying from heart disease among those who are middle-aged.

5) Get Check-Ups
Based on your age, health history, lifestyle and other important issues, you and your health care provider can determine how often you need to be examined and screened for certain diseases and conditions. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases and cancers of the skin, cervix, breast and colon. When problems are found early, your chances for treatment and cure are better. Routine exams and screenings can help save lives.

Is it time for your mammogram? Have your next mammogram at Virginia Women’s Center. Click here to learn about our state-of-the-art digital screening mammography suite.

6) Get Vaccinated
They’re not just for kids. Adults need them too. Some vaccinations are for everyone. Others are recommended if you work in certain jobs, have certain lifestyles, travel to certain places or have certain health conditions. Protect yourself from illness and disease by keeping up with your vaccinations

Learn more about vaccinations for adults and pregnant women by clicking here.

7) Manage Stress
Perhaps now more than ever before, job stress poses a threat to the health of workers and, in turn, to the health of organizations. Balancing obligations to your employer and your family can be challenging. What’s your stress level today? Protect your mental and physical health by engaging in activities that help you manage your stress at work and at home. See #1 and #3. Eating well and getting enough physical activity go a long way to combatting stress. When that’s not enough, it may be time to consult a professional. Click here to learn about Psychological Counseling at Virginia Women’s Center

8) Know Yourself and Your Risks
Your parents and ancestors help determine some of who you are. Your habits, lifestyle and work and home environments also help to define your health and your risks. You may be at an increased risk for certain diseases or conditions because of what you do, where you work, and how you play. Being healthy means doing some homework, knowing yourself, and knowing what’s best for you... because you are one of a kind.

9) Be Safe --- Protect Yourself
Start with the basics: fastening seat belts, applying sunscreen and having smoke detectors. Safety is everything from washing your hands to watching your relationships. Did you know that women at work die most frequently from homicides, motor vehicle incidents, falls, and machine-related injuries? And sexually-transmitted diseases are at an all-time high. Take steps to protect yourself and others wherever you are.

If you have concerns for yourself or a young woman, visit with a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners distinguish themselves from other healthcare providers by focusing on the whole person in her environment when treating specific health problems. Their focus is on educating patients on the effects their situations can have on them, their loved ones and their communities. They have graduate-level, advanced education and clinical training beyong registered-nurse preparation. At Virginia Women’s Center, all nurse practitioners are board cerfified. Click here to meet our nurse practitioners.

10) Be Good to Yourself
Health is not merely the absence of disease; it’s a lifestyle. Whether it’s getting enough sleep, enjoying a hobby or learning to set limits with others in your life, it’s important to take time to be good to yourself. Take steps to balance work, home, play and others’ expectations for you. Pay attention to your health, and make healthy living a part of your life.