Resolve to be better in 2018

Published Jan. 9, 2018
By Robb Lingley
21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- At the beginning of each year Airmen at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado ring in the New Year with resolutions. The list of possible resolutions is endless. Some of the more popular ones include drink less alcohol, eat healthier food, get a better education or job, get fit, and manage debt and stress better.

According to a 2011 Marist University poll, losing weight topped the list for one in five resolution-making Americans, closely followed by exercising more. Coming in third was spending less and saving more, quitting smoking, and being a better person.

The Health Promotion Office at Peterson AFB is there for Airmen to create healthy habits for a New Year in 2018.

“Airmen can help make heathy changes in their eating habits by keeping more fruits, low-fat dairy products, vegetables, and whole-grain foods at home and at work,” said Melody Vicari-Warner, 21st Aerospace Medicine Squadron, installation health promotion dietician. “It starts with breakfast where you can pair protein foods with carbohydrates to help curb hunger throughout the day.”

Vicari-Warner suggests Airmen eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.

“Don’t just eat fruit, focus on eating more vegetables,” Vicari-Warner said. “Color your plate with a rainbow.”

Airmen should also look to reduce their sugar intake. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that an average individual consumes 150-170 pounds of refined sugar per year.

“Four 12-ounce cans of soda is equal to a quarter pound of sugar,” Vicari-Warner added. “Sugar causes inflammation and unwanted weight gain through empty calories.”

Airmen should also realize that exercise is a benefit for both short and long term health.

“Exercise helps reduce stress, improve mood, reduce blood pressure, and reduce blood sugar over time,” Vicari-Warner said. “Focus on moving your body wherever you may be by walking, swimming, hiking, weight training, or cardio at a gym.”

Closely monitor your progress for maximum benefits.
The HPO will be offering a weight loss program Friday, Jan. 26, at 9:30 a.m. at the Health Promotion classroom, located on the second floor of the Fitness Center. Registration ends Jan. 24 and is open to all Department of Defense identification card holders 18 years and older.

For more information, or to register, call 556-9642 or email Dana Johnson at Dana.L.Johnson12.ctr@mail.mil.