Dying to Live? Time to look after yourself!
“Be proactive about staying healthy”
Most people spend the largest proportion of their time on what they think is the most important thing in their life. To some, this translates to spending a disproportionate amount of time on their work. This means less time with the family, with friends and on themselves as individuals. Whilst work and the ability to earn a living are crucial, we mustn’t forget that there is no life without health.
There are legend number of things you can do to shift the balance even slightly in favour of a healthier you. Here are some of them:
Exploit Every Opportunity to Eat Healthy
Opt for salad instead of the chips; skip the butter and mayonnaise/salad cream; substitute the third cup of coffee or the glass of fizzy, sugary drink for some water – you can make this more interesting by adding in some ice or fruit; have fish over red meat; eat more of the “Efo” than the pounded yam; snack on fruit instead of crisps and biscuits; decline a take away box from your friend’s party except it is healthy; use olive oil, drink beverages without sugar and reduce your alcohol intake. A good diet is associated with a stronger immune system to fight disease.
Sleep and Exercise
There is now research evidence that sleeping for up to 8 hours a night is associated with a greater life expectancy. In other words, sleep can save your life. Sleep quality is important, so switch off your devices and get an alarm clock instead of using your phone. The bedtime temptation to surf the internet, social media platforms or watch that missed episode of Grey’s Anatomy can often be too enticing to overcome. The blue light exuded by these devices does little to put the body into a “wind-down” mode and instead can be quite stimulating, disrupting your body’s natural hormonal rhythm that sets the stage for that night time “repair and reboot.” Exercise leads to the release of endorphins, your body’s natural “happiness serum” and leads to better blood pressure (reducing risk of heart disease), weight control and stamina for all life has to throw at you.
“The blue light exuded by these devices does little to put the body into a “wind-down” mode and instead can be quite stimulating, disrupting your body’s natural hormonal rhythm that sets the stage for that night time “repair and reboot.”
Know Your Body
Women should examine their breasts every month, on the same day if possible. This is to feel for unusual breast lumps. The more familiar you are with your body, the more likely you will be able to tell if a new swelling occurs. This is an important part of the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Men should examine their testicles in the same manner in order to pick up any new changes/masses. Couples could undertake this examination together if only to make it more interesting. Please report all new and/or uncertain findings to your doctor.
Wellness Check
Strive to undertake a general wellness check once a year. This comprehensive review includes checks for diabetes, high blood pressure, amongst other health concerns (even sexual health). The check can be customised to your requirements and lifestyle.
Routine Screening
Men and women should attend scheduled screening for cancer. This includes breast cancer screening and cervical cancer screening in women, bowel cancer screening and tests for prostate cancer, etc. The best you can do is to be proactive about staying healthy.
About the Author
Dr Ekpemi Irune is a Consultant ENT, head & neck and facial plastic surgeon practicing in the United Kingdom and also in Lagos, Nigeria. She is the CEO and Medical Director of Cocoon Healthcare Concierge based in Lagos. Cocoon Healthcare Concierge offers access to healthcare in Nigeria and overseas. Cocoon can offer access to all of the above healthcare solutions (and more) by putting together a customised wellness plan for you, providing a fixed, competitive quote and scheduling all relevant appointments at your convenience.
Get in touch today on 01 – 453 8888
www.cocoonhealth.net
