A healthy lifestyle depends on a number of factors i.e. stress, diet, weight, exercise, heredity factors, mental health etc. Putting on weight does not just happen "externally". Fat is stored in our arteries, vein and around our organs (heart, kidneys and intestines). This excess fat (internally and externally) increases your chances of developing problems such as high blood pressure, heart attacks and sugar diabetes.

There are also many female health problems which are triggered by stress, hormone imbalance, nutritional deficiencies and toxins. You may suffer from lack of energy, bloating, mood swings, weight gain, headaches etc. Some of these may be as a result of deficiencies in your diet.

I know you've all heard the saying "you are what you eat" - however much of a cliché it is, there is no doubt that what you eat can have a profound effect on your health. A "diet" / healthy lifestyle cannot guarantee health, however a healthy eating plan can reduce the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, diabetes, bloating, lack of energy etc

Often when illness strikes we rely on our doctors to "cure" us. We get medication to take but often the medication is treating the symptom and not the cause. What we fail to realise is the role we can also play in the cure.

The solution is quite simple - we need to go back to basics and take an active part in the maintenance of our health. We need to look at preventing illness and promoting our health and this is where nutrition plays a vital role because it is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle.

So what can you do? Here are some guidelines for you to follow:

• Eat a variety of foods
• Buy fresh foods
• Eat fruit and vegetables - at least 5 times per day
• Limit sugar - rather choose carbohydrate
• Use less fat - leave saturated fat out of your diet
• Drink 6 - 8 glasses of water a day
• Reduce caffeine
• Use salt sparingly
• Eat in moderation

So now you have selection of guidelines to choose from - start with one or two and add one new goal to your list each week.

While nutrition is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle, improved health requires a holistic approach i.e. looking at your mind, body and soul. Factors that also have to be taken into consideration are: stress, heredity factors, mental health, exercise etc.

You have the power to make a difference to your health and well being. Making healthier choices, having more energy, feeling better about yourself, losing a few extra kilos are the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.