Our daily lives are beset with stress, poor sleep, an unhealthy diet and lack of time to exercise, all of which are proven to contribute to ‘lifestyle diseases’. Often, these illnesses can remain ‘unseen’ until they have done untold damage to the body.
The Role of Lifestyle Medicine in Healthspan and Longevity
Lifestyle Medicine is a branch of evidence-based healthcare that focuses on the role of lifestyle factors in preventing, managing, and reversing chronic disease.
It fundamentally transforms our approach to preventing ill health and disease through a deep understanding of the Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine: healthy eating & nutrition, physical activity & exercise, good quality sleep, stress management & wellbeing, alongside minimising harmful substances and promoting healthy relationships & social connection.
Our preventative Lifestyle Medical identifies harmful lifestyle factors, reduces your risk of developing serious diseases, and is tailored to your individual needs, whatever your life stage or circumstances.
Examination:
- Routine cardiovascular, respiratory, MSK & mental wellbeing check
- Height and weight
- Body mass index
- Blood pressure
- Waist circumference +/- height ratio
Tests:
- Urine test
- Blood tests eg blood count (including anaemia and white cells)
- Kidney & liver function tests
- Test for diabetes
- Iron studies
- Thyroid function
- Vitamin D deficiency check
- Cholesterol profile
- Ovarian/prostate test
- TruCheck™ Early Cancer Screening blood test ADDITIONAL COST
Assessments:
- Emotional wellbeing
- Sleep
- Nutrition & eating patterns
- Physical activity and exercise
- Harmful habits
Lifestyle prescription:
- Identify areas of improvement and set goals
- Develop bespoke programme of expert-led, evidence-based lifestyle changes
Our Lifestyle Medical lasts approximately 1 hour and prices start from £870
Harnessing Wearable Health Technology:
- Wearable Health Technology is transforming how people measure their physical activity, health metrics, movement and posture, stress and mental health, environmental factors and nutrition and hydration
- We embrace new medical technology and can assist you in interpreting this data, from devices such as Fitbit, Garmin, Apple Watch, Whoop, Oura Ring, Amazfit and more
- We can refer to a physio or sports medicine consultant if required for advanced assessment of activity-specific data
- We monitor the market for new devices that will enhance your health, and recommend what we feel is clinically proven, convenient and beneficial to our patients
Prehabilitation:
- Our team can optimise your health before or after surgery to help meet your recovery goals
Further tests:
After a discussion with the doctor, based on your clinical examination and future risk based on your past and family history, other tests are available for an additional fee:
- Mammography, bilateral breast ultrasound
- Female hormone profile
- Prostate Specific antigen
- Colonoscopy
- Cardiovascular screen including Q Risk Score, an assessment of your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 10 years. Further testing if needed such as an exercise ECG, Echocardiogram, Coronary Calcium Scan, Lipoprotein (a) and APO B/A-1 ratio
- Osteoporosis screening – DEXA bone density scan
Onward referrals:
- Referral to leading consultant specialists for your condition
- Referral to allied health professionals for support such as dietician, sleep therapist, pyschologist, physiotherapist, and acupuncturist
Follow-up:
- Ongoing support is an integral part and we include a follow-up call to assist you in building good lifestyle habits
The 6 Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
Healthy Eating & Nutrition
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is a cornerstone of health and plays a significant role in preventing and managing chronic diseases. It focuses on whole, minimally processed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Proper nutrition also supports optimal body function and boosts energy levels. Hydration is equally important, along with mindful eating practices to foster a healthy relationship with food. Our Lifestyle Medicine experts can provide nutritional advice and help you make sustainable dietary changes.
Physical Activity & Exercise
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Exercise strengthens muscles and bones, improves cardiovascular health, and helps manage weight. It also supports mental well-being by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting mood and cognitive function. Our Lifestyle Medicine GPs can guide you in creating an exercise plan that fits your lifestyle and health needs and make movement a sustainable lifestyle habit.
Good Quality Sleep
Sleep is vital for physical restoration, cognitive function, and emotional regulation and sleep deprivation can lead to chronic health issues, including heart disease, obesity, and mental health challenges. Good sleep hygiene includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and limiting stimulants like caffeine before bedtime. We can help diagnose sleep disorders, provide strategies to improve sleep hygiene and refer you to specialists if required.
Stress Management & Mental Wellbeing
Effective stress management is crucial for overall health. Chronic stress can negatively impact the immune system, mental health, and physical well-being. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and time in nature can help reduce stress levels. Building resilience through positive thinking, gratitude, and relaxation techniques promotes mental well-being. Chelsea Medics GPs can also refer you to tailored mental health services.
Minimising Harmful Substances
Reducing or avoiding harmful substances like tobacco, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs is key to promoting long-term health. These substances can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer, liver disease, and respiratory issues. Awareness of environmental toxins and adopting strategies to limit exposure are also important. Our Lifestyle Medicine GPs offer support and resources for those looking to quit or reduce their intake of these substances and to embrace healthier alternatives.
Healthy Relationships & Social Connection
Strong, positive relationships and meaningful social connections contribute significantly to emotional and physical well-being. They provide support, reduce feelings of isolation, and enhance resilience against stress. Spending quality time with loved ones, fostering healthy communication, and cultivating empathy can strengthen bonds. Engaging in community activities and nurturing social networks also improve happiness and life satisfaction.