TIPS & RESOURCES

Use these links to access further information on your health care topics, questions and concerns. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota does not necessarily endorse the linked web sites, we have not evaluated them for accuracy of information, and we do not monitor or oversee them in any way.

Taking care of your health is essential. And it’s easier than you think. We’ve scoured the Web for some simple steps you can take to live well at home and work well on the job.

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Get active

Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Try a new sport. Wear a pedometer and increase the number of steps you fit into a day. Do some laps around the park—or the shopping mall. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Get outside and play with your kids. The list goes on. The links below can help you find new ways to move your body:

Eat healthy

Good nutrition is a one of the best ways to improve your health. It’s also one of the tastiest. Keep a food journal to monitor your eating habits. Try serving a new, healthy food at dinner once or twice a week. Make sure your plate has plenty of color: red, green, yellow, etc. Cut down on expensive restaurant meals and high-calorie fast food by planning your meals a week at a time. These web sites are all great resources for eating healthy, and they contain tools for weight management—whether the goal is weight loss, weight maintenance or weight gain.

Maintain balance

When experiencing personal or professional troubles, many people rely on friends and family. While helpful, sometimes it just isn’t enough to get your life back on track. An understanding, objective and professional ear can be a great first step to improving your mental health.

Visit some of these websites to learn more about protecting your mental health:

Manage disease and health conditions

If you have a disease or health problem, there are things you can try to minimize its impact and maintain your quality of life. Ask your doctor about how exercise, diet or new treatment options can help you feel better.

Another important step in managing your condition is to educate yourself. Below are some resources that can help you manage an existing disease or chronic health condition.

Break the tobacco habit

One of the hardest parts of quitting tobacco is fighting the cravings. Knowing your triggers, and doing something about them, can help you fight the urge to smoke. Avoid places where smoking is allowed, and spend more time with people who don’t smoke. Keep sugar-free gum, veggies, fruit and other portable, healthy snacks around. Stay away from alcohol. Keep your hands busy. And try to wait for cravings to subside. To read more about kicking your habit for good, see the links below:

Give your baby the best possible start

The key to a great pregnancy is great prenatal care. According to March of Dimes, women who seek regular healthcare during their pregnancy are less likely to deliver prematurely, and are less likely to have other serious problems related to pregnancy. There are other ways to give your baby a great beginning: eat healthy, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise sensibly. For more information, see the links below:

Stay on track

Everyone knows that it takes good decisions to maintain health, but it also takes support. A few simple tools can help you stay focused, and track your progress to keep you motivated. Try writing down your daily meals and snacks in a notebook. Hang a calendar in your home or office and track your exercise routine. And don’t forget to reward yourself for sticking to your plan. For help with your own plans to stay healthy, see the links below:

Additional Information and Resources