Make a lifestyle change today with these useful tips from Dr Helen

There is no 'best way' or 'best day' to start a new diet. The miracle diet promoted today may become redundant tomorrow, the wonder weight loss pills may not have any effect on you and the conclusions of the latest study you are so excited about can change in a minute, just to adapt to another innovative research. Even more, we are all biochemically different, so what works for one person may not work for another.

However, there are some simple steps you can take towards a new, healthier lifestyle. Our dedicated GP, Dr Helen Webberley, has prepared six easy day-to-day lifestyle changes that you can make, in order to enhance your weight-loss programme: 

1. Be careful with the calories
We are all aware that weight gain isn’t just about calorie intake, but being careful with how many calories you are consuming can help you make a healthier choice. Stuck between a cup of tea or a hot chocolate? Compare the calories! 

2. Don’t add it to your basket
Replace unhealthy snacks with a healthier alternative. If it’s not in your house, then you and your family won't be able to eat it. Don't buy it and it won't be there to tempt you.

3. ANY exercise is helpful
Walk faster, use the stairs, park further away, raise and lower your arms ten times every hour, it all adds up. As this is the National Walking Month, try to walk as often as you can.

4. Put less on your plate
Eat when you are hungry and slow down. Listen to your body and stop when you are feeling slightly full.

5. It is never as hard as it seems
Even if you have a lot of weight to lose, losing just a few pounds can give you the essential motivation to become the new, healthier you. If you have more to lose, it comes off quicker too! 

6. Ask for help
A research undertaken by The Lancet, a medical journal, has shown that in some cases, diet and exercise alone are not enough. Our chief pharmacist, Stuart Gale, explains that weight-loss prescription medicines can be used by patients who struggle to lose weight naturally, through exercise and a proper diet. Weight loss tablets may also be prescribed for those who suffer from health issues caused by weight problems. When used properly, the correct medication can be extremely effective in reducing the absorption of dietary fat and can aid weight loss as part of a general healthy eating and exercise plan. 

So start with a small change today. If you need support, our health experts at Oxford Online Pharmacy can offer advice and guidance on a range of health conditions; so, whatever your query, feel free to get in touch.