In theory it’s simple – eat a healthy, balanced diet, take regular exercise, get plenty of sleep, keep the drinking in check and quit smoking. But when you’re rushing around trying to juggle work, family and social commitments, all your good intentions fly out of the window and you end up skipping breakfast, eating lunch on the run and snacking on crisps and chocolate. You’re too tired to exercise and too wired to sleep. And as for drinking less or giving up smoking, that’s on your to-do list for next week/month/year…

In practice healthy living can be a real challenge. The key is to make changes that work for you so they become part of your everyday routine.

If you suffer regularly from trapped wind, what better motivation than to know that simple changes to your lifestyle could help you avoid the uncomfortable bloating and embarrassing flatulence?

• Eat regular meals that are low in fat, salt and sugar.
• Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.
• Try to have something for breakfast even if it’s just a yogurt or a slice of toast.
• Take a packed lunch to work so you’re not tempted to grab something from the nearest fast food outlet.
• Keep a selection of healthy snacks to hand, such as fruit, nuts and carrot sticks, to avoid energy slumps.
• Drink plenty of water and try to cut down on tea, coffee and fizzy drinks.
• Try to stick to the recommended limits of 2 units of alcohol a day for women (3 units for men).
  
  1 unit = 1 glass of wine, 1 measure (25mls) of spirits or half a pint of beer
• When you’re out shopping, check the labels of ready meals and sauces as these can be high in fat, salt and sugar.
• Plan ahead so you’ve got all the ingredients you need for a few evening meals in the week.

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As well as keeping you in shape and boosting your energy levels, exercise is a great way to de-stress. It also aids digestion and helps you sleep better.

Taking regular exercise doesn’t mean you have to become a slave to the gym. Find activities you enjoy and team up with friends and family to keep you motivated.

Maybe try one of the following activities:

• Yoga, Pilates or T’ai Chi
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Rambling
• Dancing
• Tennis, Badminton or Squash

If you sit at a desk all day, there are ways you can increase the exercise you take at work:

• Take the stairs instead of the lift.

• Go for a brisk walk round the block at lunchtime.

• Get off the bus a stop earlier and walk the rest of the way.

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