The fast-track to a HEALTHIER 2021

If you do one thing for your health this year, make it this, say our health specialists...

The optometrist

WEAR SUNGLASSES

‘You should be as cautious with your eyes around sunlight as you are with your skin. Protecting against UV light helps reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, which can lead to blindness. Make sure you have a good-quality pair of sunglasses that meet health regulations. A good diet also helps to protect the eyes against UV damage, so eat five portions of fruit and vegetables daily.’ Rakesh Kapoor, Specsavers optometrist director, Wembley, Edgware and Stanmore

The cardiologist

KNOW YOUR RISKS

‘Many women have no idea of their risk of heart disease. Ask your doctor about your risks and do what you can to change any aspect of your life that needs alteration. That might mean reducing your weight, stopping smoking, tackling raised cholesterol or blood pressure, and doing at least 150 minutes of exercise a week. If there’s a family history of premature heart disease, this is even more essential.’ Dr Jane Flint, British Cardiovascular Society

The psychologist

DON’T BE SO RIGID

‘My one “rule” would be have fewer rules! A lot of stress is created by ourselves, as we try to conform to rigid beliefs or ideas about what we should do or how we should do it. If we were all just a little bit more flexible in our thinking – if we stopped trying to be so perfect – we’d create a lot less stress in our own lives.’ Dr Mark Winwood, psychologist, AXA PPP Healthcare

The dentist

SPEND MORE TIME CLEANING