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LifeTimesYour guide to lifelong health - January 2013

Monthly Focus

Count on Accountability

for Reaching Your Fitness Goals

Is fitness first on your list for the new year? Joey Gonzalez, professional trainer and COO of Barry’s Bootcamp, says accountability is the key to success. Get Joey’s tips for reaching your fitness goals.

The success rate of New Year’s resolutions drops to less than 50 percent by July. But those making a resolution are still 10 times more likely to make improvements like losing weight, exercising more or spending less money than those who haven’t made a formal resolution.
New York Times, Jan. 8, 2012

We Heard You

We sent you a survey in November asking for your input on how to make LifeTimes even better. Look for some of your ideas and suggestions to appear in upcoming issues of LifeTimes. What did you tell us?

Health & Wellness

Comparing Apples and Oranges: Should You Choose Organic Fruits and Vegetables?

If you’re not sure whether the benefits of organic produce are worth the higher price, you’re not alone. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recently released a report on the topic, but the results are not as simple as yes or no. What does the report say?

How Much Do You Know About Thyroid Disorders?

An estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, and many who have it don’t know it. Left untreated, thyroid disease can cause serious health problems. Find out the symptoms of thyroid disease and take our quiz to test your knowledge.

Quick Bites: Ideas for Healthy Eating on the Go

Want to lose weight? Dieting may not be the best way to succeed. Get tips for how to improve your diet without dieting.

Resources & Tips

New Year’s Resolutions: You Can Do This!

Health-related goals are popular New Year’s resolutions, but sometimes we may not know where to begin. Need motivation to jump-start and maintain your New Year’s resolution? In January, you’ll find weekly facts and tips on how to keep your resolutions, as well as reminders about recommended annual screenings to schedule for the coming year. Connect to our Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages for health and wellness information, videos, and quizzes. Have a health question, comment or just want to learn something new? Start engaging with us in our online communities.

Be Smart. Be Well. Encourages People to Talk to Their Doctors About Sexual Health bsbw

Talking about sex may not be a regular part of your doctor-patient relationship, but it should be. Sexual health requires a responsible approach and good communication with your health care providers. Why is it so important?

Community Corner

BCBS Helps Educate 1 Million Teens on Dating Abuse and Prevention

Blue Cross and Blue Shield has teamed up with Loveisrespect.org to educate 1 million teens about teen dating violence and prevention. How will the partnership help protect teens?

Health Festival Offers Free Wellness Activities

Don’t let the winter temperatures keep you from being active. The Bart & Nadia Sports & Health Festival will provide tons of physical activities for both children and adults. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma is excited to sponsor the event, which will take place on Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City. The festival includes an underground 5K run, an indoor rowing competition, an international gymnastic competition and more. Learn more about the festival at bartandnadiafestival.com, and visit bcbsok.com for upcoming information about our involvement in the events.

Your Life

On Track for Health and Wellness: The Journey Begins

Hoping to add some healthy habits in 2013? You may find you need a little inspiration to get started and stay motivated. Follow BCBS member Clare as she shares her journey toward making healthy lifestyle changes and learn more about how to set and meet your own goals. How is Clare getting started?

Members Share Tips for Making Healthier Choices

Let LifeTimes readers help you embrace a healthier lifestyle. Read about their best health improvement decisions. Learn from LifeTimes readers.

Tell Us Your Story

Would you like to share a healthy tip or your personal journey to better health and wellness? LifeTimes would love to hear about it! If you have something to share, simply email your story to the editors of LifeTimes at LifeTimesMember@bcbsil.com. And feel free to share your comments on the newsletter at the same email address.

Be sure to let us know how we can reach you. An editor will get in touch with you if we decide to publish your story or tip in a future edition.

Have a healthy day!

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