Health and Fitness

Brits put beauty before health
Looking good in the mirror is all very well, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that we’re really fit and healthy.
How breast aware are UK women?
UK women of all ages are being urged throughout October to be more ‘breast aware’ and make sure they regularly check themselves for signs of cancer.
Cycle enthusiasts enjoy Tour of Britain and London Skyride
The bicycle boom sweeping across the country has led to a 22% increase in cycle thefts - meaning it is more important than ever for cyclists to check they have adequate insurance, according to M&S Money.

Regulator squashes smoothie doubts
With so many conflicting messages in the press these days about what is and isn’t good for you, it’s no wonder we feel confused about what we can do to keep our bodies healthy.
Brits risk health by working through illness
Over half of people living in Britain are so scared of losing their job in the current climate that they are risking their health by working through illness.

Fight the winter blues with a little help from nature
Prevention is better than cure. When it gets colder we become more susceptible to flu and cold viruses. Chase away the dreaded symptoms of thick head, bunged nose and chesty cough by boosting your immune system with antioxidant rich blueberries.
Sleep yourself healthy
15 million people in the UK are at risk from health problems associated with lack of sleep. Research at the University of Warwick and University College London has found that sustained sleep deprivation can double the risk of heart problems.

UK kids miss out on swimming because of body conscious mums
British parents see learning to swim as a key skill they want their children to have – coming second only to academic success. Despite this, a new survey commissioned by the British Gas Free Swim initiative, reveals that almost a fifth of parents asked never visit their local swimming pool.
Breastfeeding – what you should know
Breastfeeding is natural and has benefits for both mums and babies. It should be easy and trouble-free, and a good start helps to ensure that it’s is a happy experience.

Back to reality – Are you prepared for the new academic year?
The kids are back at school, your house is blissfully quiet, and you can finally turn your thoughts toward necessary household chores that backed up over the summer. But you’re still worried.
Online therapy to boost mental health for silent sufferers
A pioneering project to help people with mental health problems is launched today. The phone line and web site will allow sufferers to contact NHS mental health specialists without the need for a face-to-face meeting.

Frank Lampard encourages talented young footballers
22 talented young footballers from across the country were given the opportunity of a lifetime this week, by joining England and Chelsea star Frank Lampard at Wembley Stadium to help celebrate the milestone of one million children taking part in The FA Tesco Skills Programme.

Get in ‘shake’ and give your body a boost
Research shows that adults lose between 0.5 and 2 percent of their muscle each year once they reach 40. As a result, it is essential that we include enough muscle-boosting protein in our diets as we get older.
Retirement home gets residents digging with a new garden
Residents at a care home in Reigate are digging for victory again with a £10,000 garden designed to keep them young at heart. A sensory garden, meadow, fountain and back-friendly raised borders will be unveiled this Saturday at Priors Mead Retirement Home, Reigate.

The importance of good digestive health
This week is the UK’s 11th annual Gut Week (24th–30th August), which aims to raise awareness of gut disorders and the importance of good digestive health.