Happy Lean Year!

2013 is almost here! Now is the time to start the year off right with small, manageable changes that can have a positive impact on your health and well-being.

These changes often start by setting New Years resolutions. But, the key to making them stick throughout the year is to incorporate only a few new changes into your daily routine. Here are a few that can deliver life-altering benefits.

For most of us, morning is all about juggling kids, getting ready for work, and just trying to prepare for the day ahead. It can be tempting to skip the first meal of the day to save a few precious minutes. Yet, studies have shown that individuals who eat a healthy breakfast weigh less and perform better cognitively than their counterparts who don't. A breakfast that includes a healthy amount of protein and fiber is the best way to jumpstart your day. Don't have time to whip yourself up an extravagant early morning meal? We suggest blending yourself a Lean1 morning smoothie. With 20 grams of lactose-free protein, 7 grams of fiber, and a 17 fruits and vegetables, it's the perfect way to have a healthy breakfast when you're on-the-go. Check out these great smoothie recipe ideas.

A University of Pittsburg study showed that people who walked on average six to nine miles a week had bigger brains than those who didn't walk as much. An increase in grey matter volume can possibly improve your memory now while preventing age-related memory disorders in the future.

A trip to the doctor can be the best way to ward off future disease from sneaking up on you. Regular checkups including those with your dentist and eye doctor can be vital for identifying early or even preventing many conditions from occurring at all.

Here's an easy resolution to hang on to – eat chocolate at least five times per week. By doing so, you can reduce your chance of developing coronary heart disease by up to 57%.

The typical American consumes more than twice the recommended amount of sodium every day. Salt not only contributes to water retention, it can also raise blood pressure. Read labels on packaged food to check for sodium content, and cut out extra salt whenever possible.

Tired of your dentist nagging you to floss your teeth? Let 2013 be the year that you follow his or her direction. Bacteria in your mouth can lead to serious gum disease, and recent studies have linked poor oral health to bigger health issues like chronic inflammation, heart disease, and infertility. For something that takes only a couple of minutes each day, you can get a big health boost and keep your smile looking its best for many years to come!