NHS top tips to help with achieving New Year goals

31 Dec 19

Following the excesses of December, it's tempting to look for a quick fix, but the NHS is offering top tips to help people achieve their new year health goals in more sustainable ways.

One of many healthy meal suggestions on the NHS Change 4 life website

Professor Stephen Powis, NHS medical director said: “It’s always a good time to try to get in shape, and new year’s resolutions are a great time to make a change, but the reality is there’s a slim chance of success with diet pills and detox teas – and people could end up doing more harm than good.

“Making new year goals and shifting a few excess pounds after Christmas can be a good idea but is much easier to maintain when done gradually and safely.

“Alongside cutting-edge treatments and improved access to care, the NHS Long Term Plan is helping people to stay in control of their own health, including the revolutionary Diabetes Prevention Programme which helps people to lose weight safely, while NHS.uk has helpful tips, including a 12-week weight loss plan, alongside recommended apps to help boost fitness.”

Below are some of the most common New Year health resolutions, with links to help you get started and achieve your goal:

Quit smoking: we’ve got all you need to help you achieve your goal to stop smoking, including the free NHS Smokefree app
Get active: boost your fitness with fun and practical ideas to help you get into shape, including Couch to 5K, Strength and Flex and the NHS Fitness Studio
Drink less alcohol: calculate your units, get tips on cutting down, track your drinking
Eat more fruit and veg: whether you’re cooking for a family or eating on the go, our tips and recipes can help you get your 5 A Day
Lose weight: get practical tips to lose excess weight, including getting started, healthy food swaps, and our 12-week weight loss plan

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NHS top tips to help with achieving New Year goals