By Carol Smith

As a baby boomers you are most likely aware of your aging body and are looking for ways to improve your health. Oprah’s favorite physician, Dr. Oz offers these suggestions on how to improve your health.

Drink water. When you start to get hunger or thirst pangs, instead of reaching for cookie or a soda, drink a glass of water. The water will satisfy the urge in your hypothalamus, as well as fill the tummy, so you’re less likely to overeat. It’s also recommended you drink a glass of water 20 minutes before eating a meal, so you won’t feel so hunger and potentially over eat.

Wash your hands (frequently). Many of the common ailments we get, such as colds and flu are spread from hand-to-hand contact. Every time you come home, get in the habit of washing your hands. Include your wrists, the backs of your hands and underneath your fingernails. Wash for at least 15-20 seconds to avoid catching or spreading germs.

Don’t wear your shoes inside. A study from the University of Arizona discovered the outsides of our shoes contain an average of 421 thousand bacteria. Shoes can track in dirt, smoke, toxins, dust mites and allergens. When you walk in the door, get into the habit of kicking your shoes off.

Use a humidifier. If you live in a dry climate, consider using a humidifier to had moisture to the air. Dry air can cause cracks in the mucous membranes which will make you more susceptible to colds, sore throats, dry skin and cracked lips.

Stretch. As we get older, we tend to lose flexibility. Stretching everyday will help the feeling of stiffness in your body. Stretching improves your circulation, range of motion, improves balance and energy levels.

Upgrade your sunscreen. Many creams and lotions not contain some sunscreen. Look for sunscreen that protects from both UVB rays and UVA. The SPF number applies only to UVB, so you will need to check the ingredients list for a UVA-blocking agent such as avobenzon. If you’re sunscreen doesn’t contain that ingredient, you can still get skin damage, even if you don’t burn.

Use smaller plates. Do you remember the size of the plates your family used when you were a child? Chances are, they were smaller than your current plates. Studies indicate the bigger the plate or bowl, the bigger the serving. If you use smaller dishes, you eat less without even realizing it.

These are simple and easy to implement ways to improve your health. If you don’t already do them, select one a week, until you’re using all of them.