When life is full, the last thing you need is to fall ill. But what if your everyday actions are inadvertently causing you health problems? 'As GPs we often see patients with issues that have been caused by avoidable mistakes,' says Dr Hana Patel, NHS GP specialist in women's and mental health. 'If you know the pitfalls, you can take steps to protect yourself.' Here's how.
1 AVOID SITTING FOR TOO LONG
'It may sound simple, but sitting for too long can lead to health issues, such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist and increased cholesterol levels,' says Dr Patel. Those who sit for more than eight hours a day, with no physical activity, have a risk of dying similar to that posed by obesity and smoking, research has found*. 'Aim to get up and move every hour,' advises Dr Patel. 'Do a set of exercises or stretches, take the stairs to go to the toilet, walk in your lunch break, and pace while on a call if possible.' To encourage you outdoors, invest in hardwearing, waterproof but breathable walking shoes with a supportive, moulded footbed, such as the Regatta Edgepoint Ill walking shoes, £80, regatta.com
2 BE SMART ABOUT SUGAR
Tempted by sweet treats at a restaurant? Don't deny yourself only to give in to a piece of cake or some biscuits a few hours later.
This story is from the May 07, 2024 edition of Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 07, 2024 edition of Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Love is a BANANA SPLIT
Did Mum's new boyfriend know the way to a woman's heart?
'I still remember poems I learnt at school'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Actor and Jane Asher
CHERRY GARDEN Street
It was a place of magical childhood memories- but was it home?
JERSEY shores
Beautiful beaches and a mash-up of British and French culture make this island a delightful destination
Lovely lighter DINNERS
Whip up a healthy and nutritious meal
Looking after our WORLD
Two women talk about their efforts to help better the environment
Summer SURPRISES
For a weekend treat, try these classic bakes with a twist
200 years of heroism
The RNLI celebrates its bicentennial of saving people from the sea
Cut your risk of HEART DISEASE!
Some things can increase your chances, including menopause and diabetes. Here's what you need to know – and what you can do
'I want Bob Dylan to join the cobbles'
Dame Maureen Lipman on ageing, her dream co-star in Corrie and overcoming tragedy