Too many of us wait until we get sick or injured to actively address health issues. With the cooler months coming, here are some ways to proactively stay on top of your health.
Don’t skip that flu shot
Annual flu vaccines are available from general practices, pharmacies, community health clinics and some workplaces and schools. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from flu – people who get vaccinated are at lower risk of getting an infection and potentially developing serious disease. You may also help protect more vulnerable people in your community from contagion, such as babies, elderly people and pregnant women.
Prioritise sleep
Getting enough good quality sleep is something many of us neglect in our busy, overly connected lives and evenings filled with screens and Netflix can adversely impact our ability to settle once we do make it to bed. But there’s abundant research about the key role sleep plays in protecting your health. Check out our tips for getting better sleep if you need help getting enough shut-eye.
Antioxidant-rich soups & smoothies
Soups are delicious, low calorie and filling and an ideal way to up your daily veggie servings. Include antioxidant rich, anti-inflammatory ingredients such as garlic, ginger and turmeric. Likewise, a morning smoothie is a tasty way to get a huge hit of vitamins, fibre and antioxidants in first thing. Try spinach or kale blended with frozen banana, cucumber, pineapple and ginger for a delicious natural health boost.
Book an annual check up
Even when you’re feeling fit and fine, it’s always worthwhile having an annual check-up with your GP for routine blood tests and a blood pressure check. This way you can keep track of how certain key health indicators, such as cholesterol and blood sugar levels, are changing year-on-year and nip any issues in the bud.
Take advantage of your preventative health care benefits
All Marketplace health plans and many other health insurance plans must cover certain preventative healthcare services without charging you a co-payment. Check out this list from HealthCare.gov and make a booking if any of these screenings may help you prevent treatable diseases such as Type Two Diabetes.
