Many factors play a role in keeping you healthy. Good health is essential for decreasing your risk of life-threatening conditions. These include diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Here are four steps you can take to support a healthy lifestyle. The adage “eat to live, not live to eat” is not how most people view eating. Eating is more centered around social purposes than anything else. Business meetings, potlucks, brunch after church, and midnight snacks are the culprit of that expanding waistline. By making healthier food choices with nutrition plans, you can improve your health dramatically. Eat a well-balanced diet focusing on lean proteins, veggies, and healthy carbohydrates. I know what you are thinking. You envision of long, grueling sessions of cardio on the treadmill. Exercise does not have to be a death sentence. Any form of exercise daily is better than none at all. Aim to get 30 minutes of activity at least five days a week. Exercise will help maintain a healthy weight and prevent cardiovascular disease. Exercise is an excellent natural remedy for eating disorders. The natural high from exercise increases serotonin levels and promotes positive behaviors. Protect Your SkinWe are regularly exposed to the sun, and skin cancer is the most common type. Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet light. Many topical lotions contact sun protector factor (SPF) to keep your skin safe. Most dermatologists recommend SPF of 30 or higher. Get Enough Sleep The importance of sleep should never be overlooked. Adults should aim to get about eight hours of sleep per night. Getting a good night of rest will take some changes in your behavior. Some ideas include turning off the television, eliminating big meals before bed, and avoiding caffeine. Invest in a quality mattress that prevents tossing and turning through the night. Also, increase your Vitamin D intake because it will help you sleep better. You can spend a little bit of time in the sun, and eat more fatty fish like salmon. If you are short on time, you can purchase supplements to get your vitamin fix. These simple behavioral changes are great strides towards improving your health. Good health is a blessing, and you should never take it for granted. Whatever decisions you decide to make for your body will have an impact on your health.