Since I wasn’t quite as prompt as I had hoped with the top health tips from January magazines (hint number one: February magazines arriving in my mailbox!), I decided to run a combo issue this month. But worry not! There will be plenty of fabulous facts, as I’ve added a couple of new publications to the mix this time—the healthiest kind of supersizing around :) Away we go!

• Step up to a better rear view. Searching for a simple way to burn more calories while working out? Try climbing every other stair rather than each one, says new research from Pennsylvania State University. FITNESS reports that this method uses larger muscle groups, burning 90 more calories per hour than taking single steps. (FITNESS, February 2011)
• Don’t forget the weights. After all of that cardio, here’s a reminder to inspire a balanced routine. A study from Appalachian State University found that strength training may be the key to a healthy ticker. Apparently lifting increases blood flow to muscles more than cardio. Push-up contest anyone? (SELF, February 2011)
• Try this trick to shop smarter. The next time you’re grocery shopping, pretend there’s a line drawn down the center of your cart. Then fill one half with fruits and vegetables, and the other with the all additional items on your list. A simple visual cue like this made study participants buy 102 percent more produce, while not increasing their overall grocery bill—meaning less junk food hitting the checkout (and the shopper’s) belt! (Redbook, January 2011)

(Image from Cool Canucks)

Take the wheel and stock up on nutritious eats.

• Try a new way to boost energy. If coffee isn’t your thing or isn’t “perk”-ing you up, give one of these all-natural energy cures a shot!
  1. Eat a 1-ounce piece of dark chocolate, which increases happy hormones and its antioxidants keep you pepped up.
  2. Smell peppermint—light a candle, spritz on a little peppermint oil—to stay alert.
  3. Doodle on a pad of paper. Research has found it can improve focus and attention. (Health, January/February 2011)
• Steal the tricks of Losers. For a The Biggest Loser-focused issue, Jillian Michaels, her fellow trainer Bob Harper and host Ali Sweeney shared their health pointers. One that stood out: Michaels revealed that she used to be self-conscious while running because she thought others were looking. But everyone is more focused on themselves—not what you look like, she said. I often have to remind myself that I’m often my own worst critic and was surprised to learn that Jillian Michaels has felt the same way! Good to keep in mind. (Ladies Home Journal, February 2011)
• Sleep better and longer. During a four month period, study participants (all insomniacs) who racked up four, 30-minute workouts weekly slept 90 minutes longer each night compared to their inactive, sleep-troubled peers. Exercising seems to reset your body’s natural rhythms. Log just a few workouts weekly to sleep better and longer! (Shape, January 2011)

(Image from LifeClever)

Catch some better zzz’s like this adorable snoozer!

How much sleep do you need to feel refreshed and ready to take on your day?