Many of us want to live healthier lives. But New Year’s resolutions can seem daunting and unattainable. So if you want to live healthier this year, here are five simple things you can do to make healthier decisions throughout this New Year. 

Cut out soda.

Even small changes in your diet can make a big difference. By cutting out sugary drinks and opting for more water, you can decrease your risk of diabetes and chronic kidney disease. It can also help you decrease the amount of visceral fat (the kind of fat that surrounds internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines). 

Walk more.

If running a marathon or buying a gym membership seems overwhelming, try starting out by adding just 30 minutes of walking into your daily routine. Walking for just 4 hours a week has been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Try picking up your pace for even more added benefits. 

Get enough daylight.

While you’re out walking, you are getting benefits from more than just the exercise. Being out in the sunshine can help boost your mood and help you feel better. Even though the January days can be dark and short, make every effort to get out to soak up some rays.

Make one healthy choice every day.

Diets and exercise plans are everywhere this time of year. But many of these plans promise big results, without much work. The truth is, a healthy lifestyle is built one decision at a time, one day at a time. Little choices add up to make big changes. So instead of spending money on expensive workouts or trendy diet plans, commit to making one healthy choice each day. Trade that dessert for some fruit. Or walk to work instead of driving. These small choices will create a healthier lifestyle for you and will be easier to maintain all year and into the next.