We’re all about giving you actionable health tips, and over the past year we’ve posted hundreds! We’ve covered everything from male and female health, exercise, nutrition and pregnancy to chronic health conditions and more! These are our Top 8 Health Tips, based on feedback you’ve given us on social media. What’s your favourite Hello Doctor tip?
1. Cut Your Salt Intake!
In SA, the average salt consumption is DOUBLE the recommended 5g (1 teaspoon). A high salt diet can lead to serious health problems, like high blood pressure – so start cutting down today!
2. Take Lunch to Work
Struggling to save money each month? It’s easier than you think! Start by taking your own lunch and snacks to work, rather than buying lunch every day – which can cost up to R40 a day. Over a month, this adds up!
3. Got IBS?
IBS is a common condition which causes cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. To help reduce symptoms: eat smaller meals, identify your “trigger” foods and drinks and eliminate them from your diet, and speak to your doctor or dietician if symptoms persist.
4. Diet is also Important
You can exercise as much as you want, but it won’t make up for an unhealthy or unbalanced diet. You need to eat the right things AND exercise regularly. Bulk up winter dishes like soups, stews and casseroles with beans and legumes rather than potatoes, and opt for tomato-based sauces over cream sauces.
5. Banish the Beer Belly
Getting rid of your beer belly takes works, and unfortunately doing 100 sit-ups a day won’t help much towards your dreams of having a 6 pack. You need to get rid of the belly fat FIRST, then start doing abdominal exercises to tone your muscles. To shift fat: focus on cardio exercises such as skipping, running or swimming.
6. Could You Be Pregnant?
If you’ve had unprotected sex, and you’ve missed your period – you could be pregnant. First things first: get a home pregnancy test – they’re affordable, simple to use and accurate. If you need advice on pregnancy tests, speak to your pharmacist.
7. Migraine Triggers
Migraines can strike at any time, and they can be severely debilitating. If you suffer from them, you’ll know what we’re talking about! To help prevent migraines: avoid potential triggers such as chocolate, coffee or red wine; make sure you get enough sleep each night; eat a balanced diet and don’t skip meals; exercise 3-5 times a week; keep a diary and track when your migraines occur – it can help you determine a pattern.
8. Our Top 5 Diet Tricks
If you’re exercising regularly and watching what you eat and drink – you’re already well on your way to reaching your diet goal. To help get you there faster, these are our top 5 diet tricks: don’t skip breakfast; nibble – don’t gobble your food; don’t rest for more than 30 sec between exercises; avoid late night snacks; and use light weights during your workout for added resistance.
