Hot Topics - Healthy Living

The divide between a healthy lifestyle and the lifestyle of an “average” person in our society seems to be growing and growing. We are now seeing children treated for type-II Diabetes and heart disease claims one New Zealander every 90 minutes. Many of these deaths are premature and preventable. I find this very frightening and although there is no quick fix, we could look to make improvements in our diets or find a few minutes to be active outdoors and improve our health. 

Healthy living is all about choices, some big ones and lots of little ones. The Heart Foundation website is a great source of information. I have tried to pick out some fun and interesting ways we can make healthy choices below.

Healthy eating
I’m sure we are all aware of the need to eat healthy food for good health, but sometimes that is easier said than done. Here are five great tips to make a big difference to our diets or see for healthy recipe ideas.

1.Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables

2.Choose lean meat, chicken or fish

3.Choose low fat milk

4.Replace butter with margarine and healthy oils

5.Reduce salt and check sodium on food labels

See the recipes for delicious treats like the Grilled Citrus Chicken with Vegetable Salad Burritos or many more from the Heart Foundation.

Be physically active

This doesn’t mean you have to run marathons. Moderate physical activity for 30 minutes a day, even in 10 minute chunks, is enough to ensure you reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and keep fit. 

For a fun idea, join in Go By Bike Day on Wednesday 1^st February - a one-day annual event where thousands of people throughout New Zealand switch from cars, buses or trains and bike to work for a day. Click here for details.

Be a non-smoker

We all know this one. For hints and tips, check out the Health News column on quitting.

Manage stress

Some ideas to cope with life’s challenges include taking one step at a time, practice positive self-talk, connect with others, do a little something that you enjoy every day and get help when you need it. Relaxation methods, meditation, yoga or going for a lovely walk along the beach can also help some people.