SWAP YOUR DINNER PLATE FOR A SMALLER ONE

The smallest changes to your usual routine can have a big impact on your health, so get swapping, says MICHELE O’CONNOR

PEOPLE eat 22% less when they replace 12in dinner plates – now the average size used in the UK – with 10in plates, which were most commonly used a decade ago. Psychologically, it’s better to have a full smaller plate than a half-empty large one.

SWAP BAGS FOR LIFE FOR SEPARATE FOOD BAGS

WE MAY be saving the planet by reusing plastic bags, but we could be risking our health, warns hygiene expert Dr Lisa Ackerley. A recent US study found large numbers of harmful and even life-threatening bacteria in reusable bags. “When food shopping put your poultry, meat and root vegetables in one bag, keeping potentially harmful bacteria away from ready-to-eat foods,” she advises.

SWAP TOOTHPASTE FOR DRY BRUSHING – FOR THE FIRST MINUTE, AT LEAST

THIS is more effective for removing plaque, according to a study published by the American Dental Association, resulting in a 67% reduction in plaque build-up over six months. It seems we brush better – and for longer – without the foam and taste of toothpaste. Add toothpaste after the initial 60 seconds.

SWAP CHECKING TEXTS FOR PLAYING A GAME

IF YOU must look at your smartphone constantly, braintraining games actively engage your brain where social media doesn’t. This boosts memory and potentially reduces your risk of dementia, according to a study by Cambridge University. Try free apps such as Luminosity, Peak and Elevate.

SWAP WHITE POTATOES FOR SWEET

SWEET potatoes are lower in calories, have far more fibre and are packed with immune-boosting vitamin E. Try a mash of sweet potato and parsnip – with butter, ground all-spice and cheddar cheese on top.

SWAP YOUR SHOULDER BAG FOR A MESSENGER (CROSS-BODY) BAG

CARRYING a heavy load on one side of your body causes an imbalance in the muscular structure, triggering neck, shoulder and back pain. Distribute the weight across the body with a diagonal shoulder bag (or get into the habit of switching shoulders).

SWAP YOUR STATIC BIKE LIGHTS TO FLASHING LIGHTS

USING a flashing rear light makes you 2.4 times more visible and, with eight out of 10 cycling accidents occurring in daylight, keep them switched on day and night.

SWAP LOW FOR HIGHTEMPERATURE WASHING

“CRANK up the temperature to at least 60C for towels and bed