7th April is officially World Health Day so what better time to take a good look at your current lifestyle and ask yourself this vital question; “Am I doing everything I can to stay healthy?” If your honest answer is no, we’re here to help you. Read on for 10 ways you can improve your health by making simple lifestyle changes, starting today.

1. Eat a balanced and varied diet

Aim for more fruit and veg and less salt, sugar and saturated fats. Try to be more mindful of what you choose to eat. Occasional treats are perfectly OK in moderation, but make an effort to fuel your body with more nutritious meals, ideally home-cooked with fresh ingredients. When this isn’t always possible, pay close attention to the list of ingredients on any packaged goods and aim to keep artificial flavourings, colours, preservatives and ultra processed ingredients to a minimum.

2. Cut down on alcohol

Regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol a week risks harming your health. Studies have shown that regularly drinking more than this can lead to a range of serious health issues such as mouth, throat and breast cancer, stroke, heart disease, liver disease, brain damage and damage to the nervous system, as well as a hugely negative impact on mental health. But with so many no and low alcohol alternatives now readily available in supermarkets and bars, it’s easier than ever to cut down or cut it out.

3. Quit smoking

There’s no denying it, giving up smoking is no easy task. But the benefits of doing so are huge and can be felt from day one. We know for a fact that smoking causes a range of cancers, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and problems of the immune system. Stopping smoking even after many years can reduce these risks – it’s never too late!

4. Exercise regularly

The benefits of regular exercise are multiple. A stronger, fitter you will have a better chance of fighting infections and recover from illness quicker. And as well as the physical benefits, exercise can do wonders for your cognitive and mental health too.

5. Prioritise sleep

Your mind and body need time to recuperate from daily activities. Getting a good eight hours a night will stand you in good stead for taking on the challenges of tomorrow.

6. Connect with others

Humans are social animals, we thrive on connecting with others. In fact, studies have shown that socialising can increase longevity. So make an effort to catch up with a friend on a regular basis, or join a local community group or volunteer to meet new people.

7. Look after your mental health

Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health, so think about how you’re feeling and make time for some self-care. Life can throw all sorts of ups and downs your way, but you don’t have to face them alone. Reach out and talk to a friend or relative, or search online for specialist support groups to help you through any particular issues.

8. Learn something new

Whether it’s a new skill, hobby, sport, craft or language, challenge yourself to learn something new to improve brain functionality. It can be a great way to ‘switch off’ from everyday worries and the sense of satisfaction when mastering something new can be a great mental health booster.

9. Don’t miss essential appointments

From screenings and essential vaccinations to hearing and eye tests – don’t take these tests for granted. Make sure you attend all your essential appointments, after all, they are being offered for a very important reason – to prevent any potential medical concerns from escalating into more serious issues.

10. Get it checked out

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait around. Prioritise your health and get any niggling issues assessed by a medical professional as soon as possible. That way your mind can be put at rest and you can commence any necessary course of treatment without delay.

Make a change today

For more specific recommendations of how you can improve your health, book in for a Health MOT at YourGP. A Health MOT is a great way to get a clear overview of your current state of health. It includes:

• Height, weight and blood pressure tests
• Cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, orthopaedic and gastrointestinal assessments
• Vision and hearing checks
• An electrocardiogram (ECG) to check for heart problems
• Well Man / Well Woman checks which assess key health issues related to gender

We can then use all this information to make suggestions of how to improve your health and tailor recommendations to your specific needs and lifestyle.

For further advice on how you can achieve a healthier lifestyle, book an appointment at YourGP. Choose a date and time that suits you via our simple online booking system, or you can email reception@your.gp. Alternatively, you call us on 0131 225 5656, or arrange a call back via our website.