MANAGE WEIGHT AND SMOKING

Carrying a bit of extra weight may not seem like a problem, but it could be putting the health at risk. Being overweight can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Too much fat, particularly around your waist, can affect the health. If there is a need to lose weight, then it’s time to watch when, what and how much we eat and move more. Having a healthy weight is about watching your portion sizes, swapping some unhealthy foods or snacks for healthier ones, and being physically active.

Being physically active is important for protecting the heart. It helps manage your cholesterol levels, blood pressure and weight. Even taking a brisk walk for 30 minutes a day can make a big difference. If your child is physically inactive, the first thing you can do is limit the amount of time spent watching TV, playing video games, or surfing the Internet. Look into organized sports, lessons, or clubs that suit your child’s interests. Exercise is important for all children, even those who do not like sports, have little coordination, or have a disability. By focusing on active “play” instead of exercise, children will most likely change their exercise behaviour and increase their physical activity on their own.

Never smoke in your life is the first suggestion. There are immediate and long-term health benefits of quitting for all smokers, like: - Within 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure return to normal - After 2–3 days your sense of smell and taste improve. - After 2–12 weeks exercise becomes easier and your breathing improves. - After 1 year your risk of having a heart attack is half that of a smoker. - After 15 years, the risk of coronary heart disease is that of a non-smoker.