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Why it's important \n
Healthy eating, physical activity, optimal sleep , and stress reduction are important to achieving optimal health and managing weight as you age. Several other factors may also affect weight gain.
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People who have obesity, compared to those with a healthy weight, are at increased risk for many serious diseases and health conditions .
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In addition to the tips below, see other information that can help.
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Eat healthy foods \n
Healthy eating means incorporating a variety of healthy foods into your eating pattern. Fad diets promise fast results. However, such diets limit your nutritional intake, can be unhealthy, and tend to fail in the long run. See these tips instead:
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\n An eating plan that helps promote health and manage weight includes a variety of healthy foods. \n
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\n Limiting added sugars can improve health. Do Americans often exceed sugar recommendations? \n
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\n Ideas for healthy meals and snacks at home and on the go. \n
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\n Understanding Nutrition Facts Labels can help you make healthy choices. \n
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Limit sugary drinks \n
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\n \n Sugar is a main ingredient in many popular beverages. \n \n
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\n Sugary drinks are the leading source of added sugars in the U.S. See tricks to rethink your drink. \n
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\n Getting enough water every day is important for your health. See tips for drinking more water. \n
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Tracking food and drinks \n
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Be physically active \n
How much physical activity you need depends on your age and whether you are trying to maintain your weight or lose weight. Walking is often a good way to add more physical activity to your lifestyle.
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\n Regular moderate or vigorous physical activity provides immediate and long-term health benefits. \n
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\n Regular physical activity is important for health. See tips to get started and overcome obstacles. \n
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Tracking physical activity \n
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Manage your weight \n
You can use the body mass index (BMI) calculator as a screening tool for your weight. See more information to help manage your weight.
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\n Details on being mindful of calories, ensuring adequate nutrition, and being physically active. \n
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\n Eating more fruits and vegetables can help you feel full without adding many calories to your food. \n
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\n Suggestions from studies of people who successfully lost weight and maintained it over time. \n
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\n If you need to lose weight, a well-thought-out plan can help. These five steps can help. \n
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Help children \n
Parents and caregivers can help children have healthy growth and a healthy weight.
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\n Parents, guardians, and teachers can help children and teens develop healthy habits with these tips. \n
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\n Ways parents and caregivers can help children have a healthy weight and establish healthy habits. \n
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Adopt healthy habits \n
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\n Six ways, in addition to getting a vaccine, to enhance your immunity. \n
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\n Stay healthy as you travel by land or air and take breaks at rest stops or convenience stores. \n
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\n Quick tips on how to incorporate health into the holiday celebrations and activities. \n
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![\"Infographic](\"http://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/media/images/10teaspoons16X9.png\")
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