As we welcome the dawn of another year, now is the perfect time to set health goals that
will empower you to lead a vibrant and fulfilling life. As a local pharmacy, we understand the
importance of taking a holistic approach to wellbeing. Here are some practical health goals
to consider for the coming year.
1. Being Mindful of Medication Management
You’ll be surprised to hear that medication compliance is always a struggle for people.
Whether it be one medication that you are taking regularly or ten, it really is important to
set a routine. Understand when and how to take your medication, and of course monitor
carefully for any side effects. Regularly communicate with your pharmacy to discuss any
concerns that you may have with your medicine. Your pharmacists are trained experts in
medication! Some pharmacies may be able to organise your medication into blisters packs
which means you only need to pop out the tablets when it’s due.
2. Nutrient Dense Eating Habits
Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Nourish
your plates with as many vegetable colours as you can to maximise your nutritional intake.
Supplement these with season specific vitamins and minerals to give you the extra boost
you need for the new year. Quote: “Visit New Ross” in store for the month of January to
get 10% off all vitamins and minerals at Hanlys Local Pharmacy, New Ross.
3. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to overall health; after all, our bodies are made up of over 60% water. Aim
to drink sufficient amount of water over the course of the day. On days where you feel a
little under the weather, add some extra electrolytes through supplements like Revive
Active or O.R.S Hydration Tablets. Consult with our pharmacists on the most suitable
hydration products.
4. Regular Health Check ups
Schedule routine health checks with your pharmacy. Our pharmacy group can provide
regular blood pressure and blood sugar level testing . You can even buy home diagnostic
testing kits to check for Vitamin D and Iron Deficiencies. A number of medications can cause
deficiencies in essential vitamins and so look out for red flag symptoms such as fatigue,
weakness, sleeplessness and loss of appetite. Prevent infections through arranging a
vaccination. To book, visit www.localpharmacy.ie.
5. Quit smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake
If applicable, consider quitting smoking and be mindful of alcohol consumption. The HSE
offer free quit smoking support, and can be accessed through
https://quit.hse.ie/apps/startplan/startplansignup.aspx#!form-Step-1-1
6. Empower yourself through knowledge
Stay informed about your health conditions and medications. Ask your pharmacist questions
and actively engage in discussions with your local pharmacy team. Knowledge allows for
empowerment, and this allows for better informed decisions to be made about your
wellbeing.
Remember, these goals are a roadmap, and are not to be used as a rigid set of rules. Tailor
them to your unique circumstance and celebrate small victories along with way.
Wishing you a health and prosperous New Year!
From all the staff at the Local Pharmacy Group
www.localpharmacy.ie
Written by: Adam Esa Supervising pharmacist to Hanlys Local Pharmacy, Superintendent Pharmacist to the Local Pharmacy Group and Internationally Certified Nutrition Coach.
A Pharmacist’s Prescription For A Healthy New Year
