Small moves every day can help build a healthier future

Every Move Matters is the new NHS campaign showing that short bouts of activity add up and contribute to overall health.

Figures show that about 20 per cent of people in North Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire could benefit from moving more. 

Less than 30 minutes of physical activity a week can contribute to long-term health conditions developing, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. 

Moving more, at every age and ability, can have an impact on how we feel. 

Being active strengthens your heart, lifts your mood, sharpens your focus and adds energy to your day. 

If you need ideas of where to start, lots of free information is available online. 

The NHS Get Active website is a great place to start, with lots of tips and free tools.

Free exercise videos – including aerobics and yoga - are available on the NHS website, making it easy to work out without leaving home.

The British Heart Foundation also has a range of strength exercises on its website to build bone and muscle health.

If you want to head outdoors, the Active 10 app tracks brisk walking and can help build a daily habit.

And the Couch to 5k app has helped millions of people start and maintain a running habit. 

Being active can also mean country walks, beach runs, gardening or joining a local dance class.

Snacking is coming under the spotlight next month in a bid to encourage children and young people to have healthier food habits. 

The British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) is launching Snack-tember this September, to encourage schools, families and communities to help five to 16-year-olds to explore, try, and make healthier, more sustainable snacks. 

Research showing that 79 per cent of young people aged 10 to 13 consume two or more snacks daily, and many of these are high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat. 

Snacking is a major part of children's daily diets and poor choices can contribute to long-term health issues.  

Instead, healthy choices can boost energy levels with nutrient-rich options, improve concentration and mood during the school day, reduce unhealthy ingredients such as added sugars and saturated fats, and promote sustainability by encouraging snacks that are better for the planet. 

Lots of information about eating well is available on our Better Health website.