A healthier me in the new year?

I've been thinking about making some changes in my life, and I'm wondering if using the energy of the New Year, including all the other people making resolutions, would help. I don't usually make resolutions, but this may be the year.

In particular, it has occurred to me that having a community to support me in making some health-related changes could be beneficial.  It'll likely also help me keep my resolutions longer than I might otherwise.

With those things in mind, I decided to take part in John P.'s Health Challenge 2010.  From his blog, here are the rules:

1. Eliminate as much sugar from your diet as possible. No more candy, cake or cookies. You are allowed Two otherwise illegal candy bars per week IF you follow all of the other rules.
2. No sugary drinks like Coke (here’s why) or alcoholic drinks (huge calories)! In fact, nothing but water, unsweetened tea or coffee to drink! You are allowed Two otherwise illegal drinks per week IF you follow all of the other rules.
3. Decrease food portions by 30-50% for all meals. Instead of eating whatever portion you are given, slow down while eating and stop after you feel full.
4. Snack all you want, but only fruit, veggies or nuts are allowed!
5. Exercise at least 5 times a week. This doesn’t mean long exercise daily! It means frequent bursts of exercise. Pushups and situps a few times a day for example.
6. Publicly update the rest of us and encourage others to keep going! (Twitter, Facebook, etc.)

The challenge lasts from today (January 1) to February 28.  Wish me luck!