The observed current wisdom is that to achieve a good level of cardiovascular fitness we should be achieving 10,000 steps a day. But from where does this number originate? In fact, it was invented by a Japanese pedometer manufacturer in 1965 who named their device Manpo-Kei, literally meaning ‘10,000 steps meter’

For some of us the attractiveness of losing weight whilst gorging on steak, cheese and burgers is irresistible. High protein-low carbohydrate diets, such as the Dukan diet, provide the big green light to consume higher amounts of proteins whilst limiting carbohydrates. Furthermore, protein products are now being marketed for faster recovery and muscle gain following a tough workout ….

In the brain, the chemicals that bring rewards are known as opioids (like morphine) and dopamine (the “pleasure” hormone).

Stress occurs when we respond to situations in our life. It is very individual to each of us and our situation at the time. It has an external component or stimulus, the situation giving rise to our reaction within the individual.

For optimal health, try to minimize inflammation in the body. This is especially important if you are already overweight, as excess body fat can also cause elevated inflammation

In the 19th Century, the French physiologist Claude Bernard first proposed the concept of millieu intérieur or homeostasis. He wrote that “the stability of the internal environment is the condition for the free and independent life”.

Fermentation is a processed that has been used for thousands of years to preserve foods. To ferment a food either the natural bacteria in the food is used, or a culture is added. The bacteria break down the sugars and converts it to lactic acid.

We know that we should be active in order to “stay healthy” and we are advised to try to fit some form of exercise into our weekly routine. However, is exercise in isolation as beneficial to our health as we think? How do we find out what our health risks are and what is right for us as individuals?

The notion of fasting sounds a bit extreme to some people – the idea that you would choose to avoid food or drink for any period of time often horrifies people with thoughts of starvation. In fact, most of us are fasting overnight every night

Most people think of fat in the diet as unhealthy and fattening, but actually most fats are healthy and an important part of a healthy diet. Fat is a major source of energy, it provides and helps you absorb some vitamins and minerals

Sleeping well helps us to be more alert, have better concentration and mood and also reduces the risk of developing dementia and obesity. Whether you have difficulty getting to sleep, staying asleep or waking too early, you can improve your sleep quality by changing your diet and lifestyle.