Your overall health greatly affects your quality of life. Luckily, this is something that is within your own control. Here are a few simple things you can do to improve your health.

Exercise
Regular exercise is vital for good health. It doesn't have to involve spending hours at the gym; you can easily incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Try walking instead of driving or take the stairs instead of the elevator. All it takes is 20 to 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise three times a week. No matter how busy your school, work or social life is, take the time to exercise.

Prevent Illness
Vaccinations help prevent disease by allowing your body to build up a defense to the virus, thereby giving your immune system the power to fight the disease, if exposed. Annual flu shots are a great way to ensure the flu bug does not prevent you from doing the daily things you enjoy. Many common bugs are transferred by your hands. Take time to wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizers.

Eat Right
We all know that proper diet can help us stay fit, reduce the chance of disease and provide us with the energy needed to make it through the day. Maintain a balanced diet as recommended by Canada's Food Guide, which can be viewed at healthcanada.gc.ca/foodguide. Monitor and limit your intake of sugar, trans and saturated fats. The best way to control your weight is to balance your caloric intake with your output. Consuming too many calories without using them as energy output leads to weight gain.

Staying healthy does not have to be hard. A few simple changes can help you live healthier and happier.