8 tips on transitioning to a healthier lifestyle

Regularly exercising can reduce your risk of coronary heart disease, strokes, and type 2 diabetes and even lower your risk of early death by up to 30% (NHS). Whatever your age, there’s strong scientific evidence that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and happier life. Research shows that physical activity can also boost self-esteem, sleep quality and energy, as well as reduce your risk of stress, depression and dementia.

The key to a healthy diet is to eat the right amount of calories for how active you are so you balance the energy you consume with the energy you use. If you eat more than your body needs, you’ll put on weight and also increase the risk of other health issues developing. Planning your meals in advance is a good way to organise your food consumption so you can get the correct amount of fruits, vegetables, proteins and fibre. Take a look at nutrition.org for more helpful tips.

The British Heart Foundation advises that water is the best choice for drinking throughout the day as it is hydrating, inexpensive and sugar-free. If you want more flavour, you could try flavouring water with a slice of lemon, lime, or a splash of fruit juice. The NHS states that you should aim to drink enough water during the day so your urine is a clear pale yellow colour. It is also advised that you should drink between 6 to 8 cups or glasses of water per day.

The NHS states that eating a healthy, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good health and can help you feel at your best. This means eating a wide variety of foods in the right proportions, and consuming the right amount of food and drink to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. You should aim to consume a diet full of vitamins and minerals too. If you want to know more about how you can start eating healthily, take a look at these helpful tips.

Nearly a quarter of the added sugar in our diets comes from sugary drinks, such as fizzy drinks, sweetened juices, milkshakes and cordials. The British Heart Foundation states that not only are sugary drinks bad for your teeth, but they’re also acidic. Research showed that diets high in sugar tend to be high in calories, and the associated weight gain can impact your heart and overall health. Try drinking water, herbal teas or some fruit smoothies.

Drink Aware says that when it comes to your long-term health, cutting back on alcohol will lower your risk of serious diseases such as heart disease, liver disease and stroke. When it comes to smoking, SmokeFree.gov says there is no safe amount of cigarette smoke and quitting smoking can add years to your life. You’ll greatly lower your risk of death from lung cancer and other diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and much more.

You can transition your life for the better to incorporate a healthier lifestyle anytime you like. Having self-belief and determination will help you on your journey to better overall well-being. It’s important to look after your mental health as well as your physical health. Mind states that poor mental well-being makes it more difficult to cope with daily life, including your efforts to transition into a healthier you. With a positive mindset, you can achieve healthier daily habits and lifestyles.