The Blood Pressure Association in the UK has reported that the economic downturn means not just bad news for our pockets but also bad news for our health. The survey suggests that costs attached to a healthy lifestyle such as gym membership and healthier foods may be the first things to go. It is interesting to note that the credit crunch seems to have less effect on our love of alcohol or high fat takeaways!
A healthy lifestyle need not cost the earth - instead of gym membership having a brisk walk every day is good for you and is free! Take the stairs rather than the elevator or park that bit further away from your destination. Small bits of exercise during the day are just as good as one burst in the evening.
Shop around for fruit and vegetables as there are bargains to be had. Remember, frozen vegetables can be cheaper and are just as good as fresh; also because they are ready prepared there is no waste. Buying fruits that are in season is a good way to ensure that you are not paying over the odds; also fruits will taste nicer when in season.
When going shopping, avoid impulse buying. Many promotions are run on fatty and sugary foods. The supermarket will therefore tempt you into unhealthy choices by offering buy one and get one free bargains on unhealthy food. So the advice is to make a list and stick to it, and another useful tip is not to shop when you are hungry as you will succumb much more easily!
Giving up smoking and not drinking too much alcohol will also make your health and your wallet richer!
Hopefully the credit crunch won’t last forever; in the meantime take steps to ensure that you are fighting fit for when the next Celtic Tiger strikes!
Cara Gray, Senior Community Dietitian, Marlinstown Office Park, Mullingar.
For further information email [email protected].
