Join me on a brisk walk around the park in today’s episode of Dr Nora. I take you around the botanical gardens, observing all the wonderful elements of the park whilst keeping the heart and muscles stimulated on an energetic walk.
By exercising for 30 minutes 5 times a week you are at a decreased risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and so much more.
I hope you enjoy the workout and as always if you have any questions or comments please drop me in a line.
WARNING
Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.
If you experience any symptoms of weakness, unsteadiness, light-headedness or dizziness, chest pain or pressure, nausea, or shortness of breath, stop exercising and seek immediate help.
Heart disease is a major cause of health problems and death in Australia. The good news is, it’s often preventable. Here are my top tips to keep your heart ticking along nice and strong:
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Reduce consumption of foods that are high in saturated fats such as butter
- Exercise regularly after checking with your health provider. This could be a simple stroll on the beach or a brisk walk
- Stop smoking
- Cut down on alcohol
- Keep stress levels to a low and do activities that make you feel happy
- See you doctor regularly for a heart health check up.
If you are concerned about your heart or would like a check up, pop by and see me in clinic.
Did you know that walking at a moderate pace around the shopping mall can help to burn calories.
So next time you’re out and about getting the latest handbag or even just window shopping, remember that you’re also keeping your body happy by keeping active.
Gyms closed? Working from home? Feeling unmotivated, over indulged recently? Well it’s time to hop off from your chair and join me in the fun quick Boxercise exercise routine. It can be done alone or with a friend.
By exercising for 30 minutes 5 times a week you are at a decreased risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and so much more.
I hope you enjoy the workout and as always if you have any questions or comments please drop me in a line.
WARNING
Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.
If you experience any symptoms of weakness, unsteadiness, light-headedness or dizziness, chest pain or pressure, nausea, or shortness of breath, stop exercising and seek immediate help.
In today’s episode of Dr Nora I talk you through which foods are best to eat for a healthy fast.
WHAT IS RAMADAN?
Ramadan is a holy month that is observed by many people around the world. It primarily involves fasting from dawn until sunset, that means no water or food during that time. And it’s for that reason that not everyone can fast. Groups such as the pregnant or breast feeding, certain medical conditions and the frail and elderly not to fast. Whilst they may not be able to fast they observe the month in other ways such as going to the mosque. If you have any questions about your health eligibility to fast then please speak with your local doctor, you can even come by for a sick note.
PREPARING FOR YOUR FAST
To prepare for your fast, it is important to eat foods that will release energy over a prolonged period of time. This may take the form of complex carbohydrates. These are carbohydrates that are made up of many molecules of sugar, and when consumed take a long time to digest, examples include oats, eggs or chickpeas. It is important to also drink small quantities of water regularly to keep you hydrated for the fast.
BREAKING YOUR FAST
When breaking your fast, it is very easy to eat unhealthy and processed foods, however take time to think about which foods you are consuming. Traditionally, people will break their fast with 1-2 dates. Dates are a healthy source of natural sugars (provided they are not coated with additional sugar). They contain nutrients, such as potassium and manganese and are a perfect treat for breaking the fast.
Having soup is a great way to get nutrients and hydration into your body. In addition, the warmth of the soup will help your stomach expand after a long fast. For your main meal, you may want to consider having a variety of fresh vegetables and protein. When preparing your meals be sure to limit the amount of salt used as this can make you feel dehydrated, lethargic and bloated. In addition, when cooking foods, avoid saturated fats such as ghee or butter as these can cause your arteries to narrow and cause heart disease in later life. Instead, consider healthier oils, if any, such as Olive Oil. When cooking meats, consider baking or grilling for a healthier alternative to frying or deep frying.
If you’re looking for a sweet ‘pick me up’ get hold of some fruits which are packed with nutrients and natural sugars, or if you really want a sweet desert, check out my healthy pumpkin pie recipe.
Above all, be sure to drink plenty of water. In most countries this will be 2-2.5 litres/day, this may increase in hotter climates. Water is essential for our bodily functions, and a shortage can make us dehydrated and have adverse effects on our body.
