We recently welcomed Dr Phimister to the practice – a highly experienced GP who is already proving himself to be a genuine asset to the team. Dr Phimister practices what he preaches – he is committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and he has just finished writing his third book which he hopes will inspire others to stay healthy too. Read on to find out more about the newest addition to the YourGP team…

You recently joined the team at YourGP. How are you settling in?
Really well, thanks. The staff are professional and supportive.

Tell us how you celebrated Christmas and Hogmanay.
I celebrated Christmas at home with my extended family – thirteen people in total. And Hogmanay at home too with eight people. We enjoyed games, quizzes, movies, food and alcoholic beverages.

Did you make any New Year’s resolutions?
To finish writing and publish my third book, Eating for Health.

Many people vow to make significant lifestyle changes at New Year. What are the most common changes you see people making at this time of year?
People want to lose weight, reduce alcohol consumption, stop smoking, eat healthier and exercise more at the gym.

Why is it important for someone to seek advice from a medical professional before making any radical changes to their lifestyle?
Radical lifestyle changes can cause the body to detox resulting in common symptoms like headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain and fatigue. Depending on the lifestyle change and medical conditions, people may experience coughing, shaking, and chest pain. Some diseases worsen in the short term and therefore medical advice is recommended.

Do you have any advice for helping people stay motivated to reach their health goals?
Write down your goals and look at them daily. Choose specific attainable goals. Measure your progress. Celebrate your successes however small. Never give up because you are worth it!

Do you have a simple suggestion for one small lifestyle change we can all make today that will make a positive difference to our health?
Be grateful for three things in your life every day.

What makes Edinburgh a great place to enjoy a healthy lifestyle?
Edinburgh is a beautiful historic city with lots of fantastic architecture to appreciate, walks and hills to enjoy a stroll, restaurants and pubs in which to socialise, eat and have fun, and the Edinburgh International Festival to celebrate art, culture and the city.

Got a question for Dr Phimister?
If you would like to book an appointment with Dr Phimister, or any of our highly experienced team, just email reception@your.gp or call us on 0131 225 5656. We are open six days a week, with short-notice appointments often available.