We often fail to value our health until we lose it. There is a range of common diseases that can affect our quality of life but there are several things we can do to reduce the likelihood of developing them.
A healthy diet
A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals and low in saturated fats can help to prevent a number of the most prevalent illnesses we face, including heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Experts recommend eating at least five portions of fruit or vegetables of varying colours each day to boost intake of vitamins and dietary fibre.
Exercise
Studies show that a good level of exercise, taken regularly, can help to keep a number of worrying conditions at bay, including a variety of cancers, arthritis and even Alzheimer’s disease. The minimum recommended amount is two and a half hours of moderate exercise per week for a healthy adult; this can be achieved with the help of some lifestyle changes, such as walking rather than using the car or taking the stairs instead of the lift.In combination with a good hygiene regime to keep your hands as clear of bacteria and viruses as possible, these broad guidelines can help to keep you in good health for longer. It’s never too late to start looking after yourself.