If the New Year resolved to lead a healthier lifestyle, LSU Health Shreveport Director of Institutional Wellness Dr. Marie Vasquez Morgan has some advice. She says maintaining any resolution starts with setting S.M.A.R.T. goals.
S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym that stands for “Specific Measurable Achievable Relevant Time-bound.”
“A smart goal could possibly be, ‘I will walk 5,000 steps, three times a week, for the next four weeks, to lose a pound a week.’ The goal is specific, it’s measurable, it’s achievable, it’s relevant, and it’s time-bound,” Morgan explained.
She says we are what we eat, and everything starts with the food you choose to fuel your body. Dr. Morgan says focus on balanced meals with lean protein, whole grains and lots of fruits and vegetables.
“Half their plate, at least twice a day, should be vegetables and fruit. Something that’s very, very colorful, and they’re going to be getting a lot of vitamins and antioxidants,” Morgan said.
If you’re looking to be more active in 2026, she recommends finding exercises you enjoy. If you feel you can’t make time for activity, small changes in your daily life can make a world of impact. Dr. Morgan says consistency is most important.
“Taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Parking a little bit further away when we park a car. Doing some short workouts that we can find free online. Even standing while you’re working, or doing squats during TV time can make a big difference,” Morgan noted.