FROM MY SURGERY

TAKE-AWAY TRUTHS

More than 1 in 4 of us eat food not cooked at home – take-aways, meals out and so on – at least once a week. This trend has been clearly linked to our ever-increasing obesity problem. These foods tend to be higher in sugar, fat and salt, and portions are larger. Public Health England is urging us all to think twice before we give in to the temptation of that big bag of chips or Friday night pizza.

DO YOU HAVE FOFO?

Nearly 2 in 3 people put off making a doctor’s appointment for “Fear Of Finding Out” – they’d rather not know if they have a serious condition, according to new research by Abbvie. 1 in 3 avoid their GP as they don’t want to be told they need to change their lifestyles. Yet getting diagnosed earlier with a serious condition can save lives – and it won’t go away if you bury your head in the sand.

THE POWER OF NATURE

How often do you get out into the great outdoors? Surely it depends on your age, right? Don’t older people venture out less? Well, no, actually. 1 in 3 of us spends less than an hour outside each day, but over 60s are better at getting out than younger folk. Going outside regularly isn’t just good for your physical health, it can promote happiness, contentedness and boost energy levels. Just do it!