A healthy lifestyle in NSW is only a phone call away

A free hotline offering individually tailored health coaching to New South Wales (NSW) residents has already helped thousands of people improve their lifestyles.

But with one in two adults in NSW considered overweight or obese, NSW Minister for Health, Carmel Tebbutt, has urged more residents to call the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service.

“People who need help achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can access personal and confidential support through the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service, by calling 1300 806 258,” she said.

People who register with the free telephone service receive up to 10 individually tailored sessions over six months, aimed at improving their daily habits.

“They receive coaching from a personal qualified health coach, who helps them develop health goals, create an action plan, and importantly stay motivated and overcome any hurdles on their way to a successful lifestyle change,” Ms Tebbutt said.

Fifty-three percent of adults in NSW are considered either overweight or obese, said NSW health director of the Centre for Health Advancement, Liz Develin.

“Since the service was introduced last February, more than 2,000 residents have signed on to the free, personal and confidential health coaching service and a further 1,100 residents have received information kits,” she said.

“Participants have made significant changes to become healthier such as increasing physical activity, eating more fruits and vegetables, reducing take away meals, drinking low fat milks and reducing sweetened drinks, such as cordial or soft drinks.”

“The Get Healthy Service is convenient and can be accessed from your own home at extended hours, so achieving a healthy lifestyle has never been easier,” she continued.

“People can receive emails and a website is also available to help people navigate the journey to getting healthier.”

“Maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet, not only helps when it comes to obesity, but also prevents and reduces the risk of health conditions and diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, some cancers, type-two diabetes, osteoporosis, dental decay and gall bladder disease.”

The NSW Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service is staffed by University qualified health professionals, such as dieticians, exercise physiologists, psychologists and nurses.

For more information, visit http://www.gethealthynsw.com.au