As we are fast approaching the hot Australian summer, it is extremely important to be aware of the damage the sun can cause. Unfortunately the results of too much sun are not necessarily immediate but can be disastrous when they occur possibly years later. The effects can range from premature ageing, to potentially life threatening skin cancers.

To reduce the potential damage caused by the sun, it is important to make sure that at least half an hour before we expose ourselves to the sun, we apply adequate, good quality sunscreen. To give effective protection, don't skimp on the amount used, at least 1 teaspoonful of sunscreen to each limb, plus the front and back of your torso. Don't forget areas like the ears and back of the neck, and especially the areas of your body that receive the most sun, such as the back of your hands, nose, shoulders, and the top of your head.

Make sure you read the directions on the brand you are using as some products will last much longer than others, even after swimming. Make sure you reapply as regularly as necessary.

It is interesting to note that poor application of a sunscreen product can reduce its effectiveness by up to 75%.

A good idea is to avoid the sun in the hottest parts of the day, between 10 am and 3 pm.  Also use a hat, preferably full brimmed to protect the neck, ears and face. Wear sunglasses, and cover your skin with clothing if you have to spend extended periods of time in the sun. If you are going to spend the day at the beach or park, why not take an umbrella or shade tent.

By implementing health screening and office wellness programs many health issues can be addresses in the early stages.

Knowledge and intention can initiate change helping prevent the onset of disease or ill health. 

This is so important in cardiovascular health and diseases such as diabetes.

More than half the population aged between 60 - 64 are now working

In the last three year 40% of new worker were aged over 55.

The biggest increase across the population is in working women aged over 65.

The complete article can be seen on the Financial Review website.

As we work longer it's another good reason to keep fit and healthy.

Workplace Wellness Programs have measurable results improving stress management.  Stress has a direct effect on  health and good health starts with good intentions.

An article in Corporate Wellness Advisor reports that for every $1.00 spent on workplace wellness there is a measurable return of $2.00 - $10.00.

As far as your business goes, for example, an employee’s health can be as important as his or her work skills. Promoting health in the workplace is a long-term investment in a company’s most valuable asset: the people who keep it running smoothly.

Healthy workers can bolster the well-being of your company in several ways: decreasing absenteeism, increasing productivity, and saving a significant amount in health-care costs.

People spend the majority of their waking hours at the office, so workplace health and wellness initiatives can have a significant effect on their lives.

Beyond that, workers who make healthy lifestyle changes will likely take them home to their families, multiplying the positive effects exponentially and bringing us one step closer to the ultimate goal: a nation filled with people who are healthy, happy, and fit.

• Employers can save $16 for every $1 they spend on health and wellness.
• Fitness programs have reduced employer health care costs by 20% to 55%.
• Reducing just one health risk in the workplace increases productivity by 9%.
• Reducing one health risk decreases absenteeism by 2%.
• Physically active people save $500 a year in health care costs.

Healthy Bone Week  1 - 7 August
Book a bone scan for your staff now.

Next week 11 - 17 July is Diabetes week - do you know your BSL (Blood Sugar Level)?

Thanks for sending through the email about the health benefits of Asparagus it was really interesting.