Resolved to be healthier this year?

It’s the unspoken, understood New Year’s resolution we all share: Dropping a few pounds.

Across the nation, people have made the same vow this Jan. 1 – to get in shape once and for all.

But registered dietitians like Terrebonne General Medical Center’s Carrie Lawrence and Thibodaux Regional Medical Center’s Marie LeBlanc want you to abandon that same old resolution, especially if it didn’t work!

LeBlanc suggests setting one reasonable goal and sticking to it. “One goal is easier to keep than many,” she said.

According to Lawrence, by making the resolution specific, people don’t have to think about it. They just do it.

“If your goal is to lose weight, consider partnering up with a ‘buddy’,” LeBlanc said. ” People are usually more successful in a group or support setting.”

Incorporating a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and healthy food choices is key to losing weight, rather than crash dieting to reach a desired weight on a scale.

“Slow and gradual weight loss has better long-term results,” LeBlanc said.

They offered the following examples of healthy, realistic resolutions:

• Train for and run a 5K or even 10K.

• Train for and compete in a triathlon this year.

• Ride bikes with your children each afternoon.

• Eat a healthy breakfast every morning.

• Try a new healthy recipe each week.

• Make healthy desserts with dinner.

“As you meet those resolutions, think of more resolutions that would help you and your family be happy and healthier,” Lawrence explained. “Before you know it, you will have lost weight and be in better shape without having to focus so much on the scale.”