Financial fat

I don't like to use the 3-letter "f" word, but in this case, I am referring to spending money on unhealthy behaviors. By cutting back on the following, you can save money, sanity, and your health! Time for a quick financial check-up:

-- Overweight/obese people take up to 3 more sick days than healthy people. Save the money you may be spending on cold medicines and humidifiers by making nutritious food and activity part of your daily life.

-- Cigarettes are a huge money waster, not to mention disastrous to your skin, mouth, lungs, etc. Put away the money you would have spent on packs and health care costs, or use it to buy Nicorette.

-- Nothin' beats home cookin'. Going out to eat can be fun for special occasions, but cooking at home will save you money on ingredients, and you can re-use them or save the leftovers. Also, since you are in control of the food and portions, there's a much greater chance that the meals will be healthier.

-- Feeling sad? Exercise has been shown to be just as effective as some antidepressants. Go outside for a quick walk or hop on a bike for a trail ride. Even getting some sun can wake you up and lift your spirits. Sure beats the hefty prices for therapy!

Some people feel they will only get a good workout if they join a fancy gym, but most people don't know how to use a basic squat machine. Hit up a sporting goods store and buy your own home gym to save dollars. All you need are dumbbells, a jump rope, a resistance band, and a DVD player (if you take that route). Make use of stairwells, benches, chairs (NOT for sitting!), and playgrounds to rev up the intensity.

Saving money and being healthy is possible. Going organic? That's a post for another day...