Lifestyle & Healthy Living Guide
Health Check is a proactive approach to your health, aimed at early identification of conditions which could cause illness, reduce your quality of life, and potentially shorten life expectancy.
Take Charge of Your Health Today
Your heart health is in your hands. Small lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and informed medical decisions can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
For personalised health advice, consult your GP and explore these trusted resources to stay on top of your well-being.
Healthy Living, Healthy Eating and Healthy Heart
Prioritising Your Health with a Comprehensive Health Check
A Health Check helps identify risk factors for various illnesses, especially cardiovascular disease. Heart disease and stroke are among the leading health concerns, but early detection and proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk.
How to Reduce Your Risk
- Medical Treatment: Discuss options with your GP for personalised advice.
- Lifestyle Changes: Small, consistent changes can have a big impact. Learn more from trusted sources:
- https://irishheart.ie/how-to-keep-your-heart-healthy/
- https://patient.info/healthy-living
- https://patient.info/healthy-living/healthy-eating
Managing Cholesterol for a Healthier Heart
High cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but it can be managed through diet and lifestyle choices. Find expert-backed advice here:
- https://patient.info/heart-health/high-cholesterol
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/how-to-keep-your-cholesterol-on-track#omega-3-fatty-acids
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/food-shopping-with-high-cholesterol
- https://patient.info/heart-health/high-cholesterol/statins-and-other-lipid-lowering-medicines
Weight & Heart Health
Excess weight is a key contributor to diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on your body and improves mobility. Explore these helpful resources:
- https://patient.info/healthy-living/weight-loss-weight-reduction
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/how-to-lose-weight-in-a-healthy-way
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/is-intermittent-fasting-a-healthy-way-to-lose-weight
Type 2 Diabetes & Heart Health
Type 2 diabetes affects blood vessels throughout the body and can lead to complications with your heart, kidneys, and vision. Early intervention is key—learn more:
Exercise for a Stronger Heart
Regular physical activity lowers the risk of heart disease, boosts mental health, and improves overall well-being. How much should you aim for?
- Adults should aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or dancing.
- Alternatively, 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, like running or swimming.
- Strength training is also essential for overall health.
Find out how to stay active:
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/maintaining-a-daily-exercise-routine
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/why-sitting-ruins-our-health-and-how-22-minutes-of-exercise-could-help
Quit Smoking & Improve Your Health
One of the best decisions for your heart and lungs is to quit smoking. There are many resources available to help:
- https://www2.hse.ie/take-back-control/?s_kwcid=AL!12973!3!642052207567!e!!g!!hse%20quit%20smoking&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAk8G9BhA0EiwAOQxmfsOwEH_JIpScGeRzavHgwhaxfjOYvb0-5AmHv_rxXjUcROTIOsVhYhoC5hEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
- https://patient.info/healthy-living/quit-smoking-cessation
- https://patient.info/healthy-living/quit-smoking-cessation/how-to-quit-smoking
- https://patient.info/healthy-living/quit-smoking-cessation/benefits-of-stopping-smoking
Alcohol & Your Health
Excessive alcohol consumption negatively affects both physical and mental health. If you're concerned about your drinking habits, use these resources to assess and manage alcohol intake:
- https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/alcohol/
- https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/alcohol/self-assessment-tool/#Start
- https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/alcohol/health/
The Link Between Mental & Physical Health
Good mental health is crucial for overall well-being. Managing stress, staying connected, and seeking support can have a positive impact on your heart health:
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/what-is-good-mental-health
- https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/alcohol/health/mental-health/
- https://patient.info/news-and-features/what-is-the-difference-between-mental-health-and-mental-illness
PSA Testing & Prostate Health
A PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is often used to monitor prostate activity, but it is not cancer-specific. Learn about the pros and cons of PSA testing before making a decision:
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