There are two kinds of fibre insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fibre is not digested by the body and so swells up and provides bulk to the stool. Sources of insoluble fibre are whole grain breads and cereals, brown rice, vegetables and fruit. (You should try to obtain your insoluble fibre from sources other than wheat bran, which contains phytates—substances that attach themselves to minerals such as calcium—making them unavailable to the body.)

Soluble fibre is partially digested by the body and may also help reduce cholesterol. Foods rich in soluble fibre include oats, and legumes such as kidney beans, garbanzo beans, soy beans and lentils. Nutritionists generally suggest that approximately 20 - 30 per cent of the daily fiber intake should come from soluble fibre.

If you plan on increasing your fibre intake, you should do so gradually, to avoid bloating, discomfort and flatulence. You should also increase your fluid intake as dietary fibre soaks up water, depriving the cells of the hydration required to perform properly.

How our pharmacists can help:

London Drugs pharmacists understand that sticking to a diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables, as well as calcium and fibre although the healthiest route to go—can sometimes be difficult. If you have a pattern of skipping fruits and veggies, calcium-rich foods or those rich in fibre, you may want to discuss supplementation with the pharmacist. There are a number of supplements that will help keep your health in check if your dietary habits sometimes slip. These include natural-source antioxidants, calcium supplements and fibre supplements.

4. Are you getting enough sleep?

The primary purpose of sleep is to prepare your body and mind for the challenges of the following day. During sleep, the body literally recharges itself. People who don’t get enough sleep feel lethargic, lack that vital spark, have increased stress levels and develop the tendency to put on weight.

How much sleep do you really need?

Although many people claim they get by quite happily on five or fewer hours of sleep, sleep experts generally agree that seven hours is the minimum to ensure energy reserves are rebuilt. The average person sleeps only five or six hours a night, building a “sleep deficit” that can impair function and cause an ongoing feeling of fatigue.

How our pharmacists can help:

London Drugs pharmacists know all about sleep, and how the lack of it can affect your energy levels and general well being. Ask the pharmacist what natural sleep aid would be best for your specific needs. We carry a number of highly effective products that can help you get the shut-eye you need, including many excellent formulations containing melatonin.