Health Scan: Lifestyle Q&A

Laura Woods, TV and radio presenter

Do you think you have a healthy lifestyle?

Compared to what it was like during my twenties – absolutely. I continued to live the life of a student long after I finished college. I lived with a gang of girls and healthy food was not high on our list of priorities. As I’ve gotten a bit older, my metabolism has slowed down, so I put on weight more easily and it takes longer to shift. Therefore I’m much more food conscious these days. I try to eat well and get exercise when I can too.

How often do you exercise?

At the moment, I’m participating in the Aviva Get Fit Action Plan, so I’m exercising five days a week. I was pregnant for most of last year and in the final trimester I suffered from oedema. This meant that my legs were too swollen to do any decent exercise. I did go to aqua-natal classes, and it was such a relief to feel as light as a feather, even if it was only for 45 minutes! I’m not a gym junkie, but when you’re medically advised against any form of strenuous exercise, it’s really frustrating – all I wanted to do was throw on my runners and go for a jog.

Do you get your five a day?

I’m ashamed to admit it, but I don’t. I probably average about two portions fruit and veg a day. Must work on that.

Do you worry?

I’m quite a practical person so I tend not to worry too much. Having said that, work has caused a few grey hairs over the years. Now that I have a little baby to look after, I’ll be worrying about him for the rest of my life.

What do you do to relax?

I like to read, swim, run, go to the movies or the theatre. If the grandparents are available to baby-sit, my husband and I will go out for a meal with friends.

What’s your unhealthiest habit?

Probably giving up on the gym too easily – it’s tough to get motivated when the weather is cold and dreary but I’m determined to lose the baby weight over the next few months. So feel free to follow me on my journey on avivahealth.ie.