Help is at hand to get us healthy for 2013 (From Gazette & Herald)

Help is at hand to get us healthy for 2013

11:01am Wednesday 9th January 2013 in News

DOCTORS are encouraging people to make a new start this New Year by taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle.

Dr Mark Hayes, chief clinical officer from the Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “New Year is typically the time when people pledge to make a positive change, and if that change is to improve their health, the NHS has lots of ways in which it can help.

“It doesn’t have to be a massive change. It could be something as simple as eating more healthily, taking a bit more exercise or cutting down on the amount of alcohol you drink, but whatever your personal challenge the NHS can offer support to help you achieve your goal.”

Dr Hayes said people aiming to quit smoking are up to four times more likely to succeed with the help of the North Yorkshire NHS Stop Smoking Service. Anyone can phone them on 0300 303 1603.

For people who have pledged to shift the Christmas pounds, the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk features the Couch to 5K challenge, designed to get those who don’t exercise fit and ready to run five kilometres in just nine weeks.

Meanwhile, the Change 4 Life website, www.nhs.uk/Change4Life, offers advice for individuals and families on how to make simple lifestyle changes which can lead to better eating habits, increased activity levels and, ultimately, living longer.