Want Healthier and More Prosperous Things in 2026? It Doesn't Have to Be Complicated

What's your New Year's resolution? That question always comes up as the end of the year approaches.

This is because in the new year, people usually want to try to start new good habits. The new year becomes a moment to renew commitments to have a better quality of life than before. This includes matters related to health and well-being.

However, no matter how great a resolution may be, it can quickly turn daunting and seem nearly impossible. This usually occurs because individuals are inundated with various suggestions and information from news, advertisements, influencers, relatives, friends, and even politicians, which can sometimes contradict each other and create confusion.

Don't worry, not all suggestions need to be listened to and followed. The Associated Press news agency, on Monday (29/12/2025), gathered tips and tricks for pursuing reasonable resolutions. According to experts, there is no need for anything complicated. Just do the simple things. For instance, in terms of diet. Experts say that the majority of people do not need to spend extra money just for dieting.

If a person eats sufficiently, they should be able to obtain enough protein. There is no need for products that promise better and faster results.

Many people consume more fiber in their diet. However, it is advised not to focus solely on fiber intake. It would be much better to consume a complete diet that includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

Furthermore, do not be tempted by skincare routines of up to 20 steps and the use of serums priced at 200 US dollars sold by influencers on TikTok. Dermatologists state that these are actually unnecessary. Simply avoid beef fat and apply a good sunscreen instead, including for those with darker skin tones.

If you want better skin, take a thorough bath for one hour. Bathing is the best, simple, easy, and quick way to achieve clean skin.

For fitness, if the gym and all its equipment looks intimidating, one can dispel the illusion that the best workout requires all of that.

This can be replaced with calisthenics that focus on bodyweight exercises without the need for complete equipment as found in fitness centers. This can be done at home.

Research shows that calisthenics helps improve muscle strength and aerobic conditioning. It may eventually require weightlifting or other equipment. However, this can also be done at home with items available in the house, such as water-filled bottles and others.

The most important thing is not what equipment you use, but rather consistency and self-confidence.

To ensure that the body is truly healthy, it is not necessary to purchase all health devices such as microbiome testing tools or continuous glucose monitoring devices, especially if one does not suffer from diabetes.

The idea of pills, products, or routines that could serve as miraculous cures is indeed tempting. However, science has already uncovered many ways to enhance mental and physical health in simpler ways. And this has been proven.

Lifestyle changes not only make an individual feel better in the moment but also impact their quality of life in the future. Numerous studies have shown that adopting a healthier lifestyle will reduce the risk of dementia and many other health issues.

It is difficult to determine whom to listen to for input regarding health matters. On social media, there are many influencers or netizens sharing their personal experiences. They claim that their methods have worked for them.

There are also many advertisements from various brands and companies that may promise easy solutions or even scare people. Although the medical system is not perfect, doctors remain the best individuals to consult or to ask about health issues, including prevention and potential treatments.

However, if you prefer not to meet with a doctor and instead choose to consult "Doctor" Google or chatGPT, for instance, just ensure that it serves only as a reference. Never use it to self-diagnose.

If consulting with a doctor, make the most of that opportunity by bringing a written list of questions. Do not hesitate to ask for any clarifications needed. (AP)