Dr. Harvey Simon, who is editor of the Harvard Men’s Health Watch, cuts through the clutter and provides 10 resolutions for 2009.

Surprise! They’re all complementary.

Avoid tobacco.

• If you’re a smoker, quitting is your first priority.

Eat right.

• Lots of fish.
• Smaller portion sizes — if you’re overweight.
• Avoid calorie-dense foods.

Exercise.

• Build physical activity into your daily routine.
• Walk, walk, walk.

Control your weight.

• See resolutions 2 and 3.

Reduce stress.

• Get enough sleep.
• Limit exposure to media reports of misery and mayhem.
• See resolution #3.
• Appreciate and enjoy life’s many little pleasures.
• Try relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing.

Control alcohol.

• Limit yourself to 1 or 2 drinks a day (women should drink half as much).
• 5 oz of wine, 1½ oz of liquor, or 12 oz of beer = 1 drink.

Protect yourself from infection.

• Be sure your immunizations are up to date.
• Wash your hands often.
• Protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases.

Prevent accidents and injuries.

• Wear seatbelts and drive defensively.
• Check your house for clutter and cords.
• Hold the handrail when walking stairs.
• Careful on icy pavements.

Avoid environmental hazards.

• Air pollution, pesticides and toxins, contaminated food and radiation.
• Excessive sunlight is toxic to your skin.

Get good medical care.

• Know your numbers — cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight.
• Listen to your body and tell your doctor if you don’t feel well.

The bottom line?
Have a happy, healthy, and complementary new year.

1/1/09 11:18 JR