4.03 AM Friday, 29 March 2024
  • City Fajr Shuruq Duhr Asr Magrib Isha
  • Dubai 04:56 06:10 12:26 15:53 18:37 19:52
29 March 2024

UAE marks World Health Day: 10 simple steps to go from fat to fit...

Published
By Staff

Today, the UAE observes World Health Day and several key health issues - ranging from diabetes to obesity and heart ailments – all stem from lifestyle choices.

Here, Riwa Shidiak, Clinical Dietician, Al Zahra Hospital, Al Barsha, Dubai, gives you some tips and advice to help beat the risk of developing diseases related to lifestyle. 

1 Undertake at least 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week such as running or 150 minutes of moderate activity per week such as a long walk or opt to take the stairs rather than the lift.

2 Give up smoking – research shows that people who quit smoking by the age of 30 add 10 years to their life.

3 Eat away from your work desk or TV – research suggests that eating whilst working or watching TV is linked with overeating and snacking, which leads to weight gain.

4 Drink at least two litres of water daily especially as temperatures begin to soar – water is needed to carry out our body functions effectively.

5 Do not make fast food a regular part of your diet –  fast food is full of refined carbs and sugar, salt and poor quality cooking oil.

6 Pick bright coloured natural foods such as fruit and vegetables as these are usually high in anti-oxidants.

7 Take a break from stress when you can by going for a walk or leaving a decision until the next day.

8 Rest! When we don’t get enough sleep we compensate by eating more. Sleep also helps us repair and rejuvenate.

9 Get outside in the sunshine for a natural boost. The sun's rays on the skin help your body produce vitamin D, which has been shown to help depression, osteoporosis and even some types of cancer – but remember to keep safe in the sun with a high factor sunscreen.

10 Laughter is the best medicine – studies have found that those with a positive attitude suffer less from conditions such as heart disease. Find something to laugh at every day to give your feel-good hormones a boost.