Dr Michael Mosley says that one lifestyle change could help your heart, improve your mental health, and boost your chances against one of the world's 'biggest killers'. High blood pressure is responsible for approximately 75,000 deaths every year in the UK, and is the third-biggest risk factor for all disease after smoking and poor diet. The good news is that one simple change - which only needs to be done once a month - could significantly lower your blood pressure.
Not only that, but other people benefit from it too. Dr Mosley is talking about volunteering. While it may not sound as glamourous as a magic health food or calorie-busting exercise, it can have a significant impact on your health.
And Dr Mosley should know. Two years ago, he and his family volunteered to take in four Ukrainian refugees following Russia's invasion - and they still live with them now. "Regular volunteering can be really good for you and community," the TV wellness guru says.
"It can lift your mood, help your heart, and help others. "One way volunteering may help increase healthy life is by lowering blood pressure – one of the world’s biggest killers. Helping others can help lower chronic inflammation and strengthen heart health.
"A 2016 study involving more than 7,000 older Americans found those who volunteered spent 38 per cent fewer nights in hospital. A follow-up study in 2020 found as little as two hours of volunteering a week was linked to a lower risk of an early death and an improved se.
