SIX WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

1. Get a good night’s sleep: Taking positive steps to prepare for a good night’s sleep can make a real difference to your health.

Avoid stimulants such as nicotine and caffeine before bedtime and limit how much alcohol you consume. Set a digital “curfew” by switching off digital devices a few hours before hitting the sack. Try not to exercise late at night and prepare for bed with a relaxing routine, such as taking a bath or reading a book. Speak to a doctor if you are having real problems sleeping.

2. Remember, you are what you eat (and

drink): What we consume has a direct impact on our short and long-term health.

If you think of food and drink as fuel, it’s easy to imagine why a diet that is low in nutritional benefits, but high in sugar and fat might leave you lacking in energy and open to episodes of poor health.

The cumulative impact of a poor diet is where the real problems can begin, potentially increasing the risk of diabetes, cancer and heart disease.

3. Hit the gym: Exercise brings benefits for both health and wellbeing, helping people to maintain a healthy weight and counter the stresses of daily life.

If you have not exercised for some time or have any concerns, then consult a GP about your plans first.

4. Take a break: We all need a break from the stresses and strains of daily life. Book a break but make sure it’s a healthy one by following a few simple tips.

Travelling long distances, either by road or air, has been linked to an increased risk of developing a blood clot in the leg, also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Flight socks have been shown to help reduce the risk of blood clots. Keeping mobile and hydrated will help to reduce your risk as well.

Be careful with what you eat and drink whilst you are away and make sure that you keep yourself hydrated with safe water.

See fitfortravel.nhs.uk for more advice.

5. Get a health check: If you’ve reached the age of 40, you will have been invited for a free NHS health check. This can be a great opportunity to check on aspects of your health such as cholesterol, sugar levels (for diabetes) and blood pressure.

6. There’s an app for that: From fitness apps to NHS electronic prescriptions, technology is making it easier for us to live healthier lives. Online pharmacies can work with your doctor to deliver repeat prescriptions to the door, while wearable tech enables people to manage conditions, from asthma to high blood pressure.