Goood morning lovely readers! How crazy is it that the last week of January is here already!? Time really does fly. Because I know as much as anyone how easy it is to put things off, I’ve teamed up with One Stop Doctors to give you guys a professional’s view point on how to boost and detox this body for this coming year. Hope you find it useful and if you have any questions, please comment below, this is written by the doctors and One Stop themselves xx
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It’s time to reboot for a happy, healthy 2017. Kick start the new year with a new lifestyle and cleanse the body with a fresh approach to your physical and mental health. January is a time for setting yearly goals, so here are some essential areas where you can make positive changes to prevent some of the more commonly shared health concerns between us.
Love your heart
Make it a goal for the new year to take care of your heart! The powerhouse of your body, it’s the most important organ to take care of and that does mean stepping away from some bad habits! Coronary heart disease is a serious thing and actually (CHD) kills around 73,000 people in the UK each year.
Take a look at your lifestyle and see what simple steps you can make to reduce the risk of CHD. That means kicking the habit once and for all for smokers, being more physically active, and tailoring your diet to control blood cholesterol and sugar levels. Getting fit doesn’t mean you have to shell out for a gym membership, there are plenty of ways to get into shape for free. Try introducing a run to your daily routine, walk or cycle short distances where you would usually drive, or practice a home-based workout. Be sure to seek advice from your doctor, especially if there is a history of the disease in your family.
And breathe…
There are a number of small everyday actions you can take to benefit your lungs and boost their performance. What’s your posture like? It’s safe to say that if you’re like most of us, it’s far from ideal. Lungs are soft structures and can only operate in the space you provide them. If you sit straight and avoid slouching and crumpling your lungs, you will be able to breathe deeper and make better use of your lung capacity, thus improving your oxygen intake.
It also goes without saying that smoking and a lack of exercise will hinder healthy lungs. Make 2017 the year you get out there and break bad habits!
Banish those January Blues
The buzz of Christmas and New Year has passed, the weather is getting a tad bleaker, and the all-too-common January blues can begin to set in. An easily dismissed term for some, ”˜January blues’ can represent some serious issues for others. Thankfully there are steps you can take to help minimise these and put a much needed spring back in your step!
The exact cause of Seasonal affective disorder is unknown but sunlight deficiencies can affect the production of melatonin and serotonin in the brain, leading to a general feeling of lacklusterness. Be sure to stay physically active as this can both relieve stress and provide a focus that can distract you from negative thoughts. Your GP may recommend changes to your diet and vitamin supplements that can help boost your serotonin levels and general mood. Seek advice from your doctor if you feel you are suffering from these January blues (Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)).
There’s no harm in checking
Whether you’re male or female, checking yourself for physical irregularities is essential. We’ve all heard the advice from specialists, but unfortunately most people are letting it go through one ear and out the other. In truth, it can be hard to remember to check yourself on a regular basis. If you’re one of these people, make this the year you change your ways.
Unusual lumps and bumps are often nothing to worry about, but it’s always best to be vigilant with your health just in case. If you do find something suspicious, or are unsure if you are checking yourself efficiently enough, speak to your GP for advice.
Setting health goals
Setting yourself targets and resolutions is easy, but sticking to them as the year goes on can be a real challenge. These are just a few topline suggestions to help you improve some of the key aspects of your health and wellbeing. For a more tailored approach to your body, you should consult your GP for personal recommendations.
One Stop Doctors is a private advanced clinic, offering a wide range of healthcare expertise in one place. They provide high quality services from specialist consultant doctors to physiotherapy, aesthetics, dentistry, and private GP care. All services and treatments are personalised to the lifestyles and needs of each patient. Priding themselves on same-day appointments, One Stop Doctors also provide cutting-edge diagnostics with access to some of the finest specialist consultants in the country. If you are concerned about the topics discussed, or any aspect of your health, click here book an appointment with a doctor.
Be Healthy, Be Happy! xx
