Tips for health and well being

Always remember that when you feel thirsty you are at that point actually dehydrated! Lack of water is energy sapping, can be detrimental to all bodily functions and lead to problems such as constipation, dry skin, headaches and lack of concentration.

You can also be hydrated by eating juicy fruits and vegetables - just try a big slice of juicy water melon in the summer. Bottled mineral water is great too but steer clear of the fizzy variety.

Drinking fluids in between your meals rather than with your food as the water or drinks will interfere with the absorption of the nutrients (especially if you drink tea with your food as it stops the absorption of iron)and upset the digestive process.

First thing in the morning make a mug full of hot water with a squeeze of half a lemon and sip slowly, this help to flush out the mucous build up in the intestines and get things moving!

Sit by a window which looks onto trees or the garden. Just take a few moments before the rush starts to centre and steady yourself.

Eat slowly:

Most of us eat at break neck speed, disconnected from the process of eating. Savour the flavours, textures and taste. Treat this process, of hunger and eating with respect as it is fundamental to your good health and survival. Even if you are rushed always make time to stop what you are doing ( on the PC, watching TV, reading etc) and concentrate fully on eating.

Your digestive process takes a lot of energy so it is important to allow yourself some rest afterwards or just slow down a little and don't do anything strenuous after your meal.

Eat little and often and avoid gut busting meals as they place a huge burden on the digestive process. Blood sugar levels remain more stable when you eat smaller meals and help your body cope better with stress as it reduces the burden on the adrenal glands.

Avoid too many stimulants such as coffee and tea and depressants such as alcohol as they will give you blood sugar level highs and lows, leave you dehydrated, nervy and jittery. Instead try caffeine free coffee substitutes.

Always, Always eat breakfast:

A good breakfast sets you up for the day, fuels your body after the 'fast' during the night. Porridge oats provide sustained energy and essential nutrients needed to fuel your day and keep you calm and stress free. Make the porridge with soya or skimmed milk, add honey and finish off with fresh fruits on top.

Learn to cook:

Many young adults cannot cook a meal from scratch. Processed and ready- made meals, though convenient are packed full of additives, sugars and salt. As well as beneficial for your health, you will also be saving money and discovering the joy and sense of achievement when you cook and then share a well cooked meal. Invite a friend to share in your new skill or get together and share the cooking.

So, take responsibility for your own health, you just have this one body for the rest of your life so you might as well look after it!