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2-minute health hacks doctors swear by that are tiny changes with huge impact
Reach Daily Express | October 12, 2025 1:39 AM CST

Small changes to your day-to-day life could have profound health impacts over time - and may only take a couple of minutes at a time. Staying healthy isn't a one and done thing, and requires looking after yourself, maintaining a good diet, and getting exercise for your physical and mental health.

But if you're finding the barrage of health tips and advice we receive in our modern world overwhelming, there are a number of small, quick lifestyle changes things to start with that could make a big difference. Primary Care: 24, a not-for-profit social enterprise based in Liverpool that delivers NHS contracts, shared a few healthy habits which is says can "change your life".

It highlights various things that are key for feeling your best, like going outside and enjoying nature, staying social and connected to friends and loved ones, regular exercise, good sleep, and a health balanced diet.

But Primary Care: 24 flagged some really quick and easy ones too, like staying hydrated.

"Water is essential for virtually every function in your body - from temperature regulation to brain function," the organisation notes, pointing out that the NHS "recommends six to eight glasses of fluids per day, ideally water or low-fat milk".

It points out that staying hydrated can help prevent headaches, reduce fatigue, prevent headaches, as well as improving digestion and your skin health. The company shared some ways to make increasing your water intake - if necessary - easier, including:

  • Carrying a reusable bottle with you during the day
  • Setting hourly reminders on your phone to hydrate yourself
  • Having a glass of water with your meals
  • Adding some natural flavours like lemon, mint, or cucumber from time to make it more appealing

It may feel less relevant now that the cooler days of autumn have arrived, but internalising the importance of staying sun safe is also key.

Primary Care: 24 notes that protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure is "essential", and can help prevent skin cancer, skin damage, and premature aging, and it takes only a few seconds to

The NHS advises Britons to take the following steps during sunny weather:

  • Get in the shade between 11am and 3pm
  • Make sure you ever burn
  • Cover up with protective clothing and sunglasses
  • Take extra care with children
  • Put on at suscreen of at least 30SPF

The non-profit also says while most people get all the nutrients they require from a healthy diet, some supplements are recommended by the health service.

These include Vitamin D, which can be good for some people in autumn and winter when you're getting less of it naturally from the sun.

You can find out more on the NHS website.

However, Primary Care: 24 stresses that you should always consult with your GP before starting to take supplements, "particularly if you have health conditions or are taking other medications".


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