With 2017 now in full swing, health experts in Southport, Formby and West Lancashire are highlighting the benefits of eating healthier and being more active to patients as they focus on New Year’s resolutions.

Dr Rob Caudwell, local GP and NHS Southport and Formby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) chair, said: “Now that we are in 2017 why not think about the year ahead and perhaps set some targets to improve your health?

“After indulging over the festive period, many of us naturally start to think about cutting down at the start of the new year, whether it be taking part in Dry January, deciding to stop smoking or just generally eating healthier and cutting down on treats. All of these can help with health issues along with being more active. It is important though that we try and maintain all of these things throughout the year.”

Dr Bapi Biswas, a GP in Ormskirk and Skelmersdale, and GP executive lead at NHS West Lancashire CCG, said: “The gym isn’t for all of us, and for some, being more active might be walking to the top of their road to get the newspaper. For others it will be going for a jog and walking around a local park.

“We all have different targets but it is proven that regular exercise can lower the risk of many health conditions including type 2 diabetes, depression and dementia and it doesn’t need to be costly.”

Talking about Dry January, Dr Biswas continues: “We really encourage Dry January as it has been proven that after taking part many people have more energy, improved sleep and many cut down on alcohol in the months following it so it does have its benefits.”

Evidence shows that one month after participating in Dry January in 2016:

• 79 per cent of participants saved money
• 62 per cent had better sleep and more energy
• 49 per cent lost weight

If you are thinking about stopping smoking but would like some advice you can call Healthy Sefton on 0300 100 1000 or for any West Lancashire residents’ there is the Quit Squad on 0800 328 6297.

You can also find lots of information on where to start with exercising on the NHS choices website here: www.nhs.uk/livewell/fitness/Pages/Fitnesshome.aspx