Practical Health Tips for a Better Life
Here are some pieces of advice I give my patients and try to incorporate into my own life:
1️⃣ Have a Regular GP
Good healthcare is a teamwork process between the patient and the practitioner. Like any team—whether in sports, work, or relationships—we see the best results when all parties know each other well, are invested in the outcome, and have worked together on problems over time. Seeing a different GP each time at a bulk-billing clinic does not support the best healthcare. Health is complex, and building a therapeutic relationship with the same practitioner will improve your healthcare experience.
2️⃣ Incorporate Lifestyle Changes Positively
When making lifestyle changes, consider them an addition to your life rather than a punishment or restriction. For example, add more vegetables, more movement, water between or instead of alcoholic drinks, and mindfulness practices. This way, your life gains from the changes, and each positive health behavior creates a reward/positive association in your brain, making it more likely to become a habit. Humans are simple creatures, and if lifestyle changes feel restrictive or like a punishment, we won’t continue them.
3️⃣ Prioritize Sleep
Sleep deprivation and poor sleep quality increase the risk of multiple physical and mental health conditions. I once read, “If all you have the energy to do at night is watch TV, then you should probably go to sleep.” Prioritizing sleep can significantly improve your overall health.
4️⃣ Exercise for Health, Not Just Weight Loss
Don’t think of exercise solely as a means for weight loss. Exercise decreases the risk of heart disease, cancers, dementia, depression, diabetes, and more, regardless of weight loss. Exercise generally doesn’t help much with weight loss but is more effective for weight maintenance after weight loss. It’s more likely to become a habit when there are positive associations rather than viewing it as a punishment to change your body size.
5️⃣ Cut Down on Alcohol
While I enjoy a glass of wine (or several), it’s ultimately a carcinogen, disrupts sleep, causes anxiety, and is not good for metabolic health. Reducing alcohol intake can have significant health benefits.
My Health Goals for 2025
My health goals for 2025 include cutting down on takeout for both health and financial reasons and incorporating more play and fun activities into my life. What are your health goals for this year?