Healthify Healthy Tips - October 2025

This month heading

Less sugar, more energy: here’s how

Most of us eat more sugar than we think and it often hides in everyday foods. Cutting back doesn’t mean giving up all the treats you love. With a few simple swaps and small changes, you can lower your sugar intake and still enjoy tasty meals. Learn how hidden sugars affect your health, what to look for on food labels and easy tips to cut down without feeling like you’re missing out.

Get the tips here

Feeling weighed down?

Talking about your mental health can feel scary, but opening up is one of the most powerful steps you can take. Whether it’s with whānau, a close friend or a health professional, sharing what’s on your mind can ease the load and help you feel understood. We’ve put together practical talking points to help you start the kōrero.

See the talking points

Catching osteoporosis early: Rachel's story

My osteoporosis journey started when I realised I was going into early menopause at the age of 34. I decided I’d pay privately to have a bone density scan (DEXA) to see what my base rate was. To my horror I found I was already in the osteopenia range which meant that my bone density was already lower than normal for my age. I was so glad I thought to do it, because...

Click here to read the rest of Rachel's kōrero

Move to improve arthritis

Staying active is one of the best things you can do if you have arthritis. Movement helps  keep your joints flexible, strengthens the muscles that support them and  eases stiffness and pain. It can also boost your mood, energy and overall  wellbeing. The key is finding the right type and amount of movement for your  body, even small steps make a big difference.

Click to see how exercise helps

Stroke prevention starts today

A stroke can happen to anyone, but many risk factors are within your control. Making small changes to your lifestyle like eating well, being active, keeping blood pressure down and not smoking can make a big difference. Taking care of your health today helps lower your chances of stroke in the future and supports your overall wellbeing.

Find out how to reduce your risk

Understanding Medicine

Do you ever forget to take your medicines?

Taking medicine regularly is key to staying well, but it’s easy to forget a dose. Whether you’re just starting a new prescription or juggling several, there are simple tricks to help. From pillboxes and phone reminders to pharmacy blister packs, these tips make it easier to stick to your routine and keep your health on track.

View tips here

Could your medicines cause problems?

Medicines play a big role in keeping us well, but sometimes they can cause side effects, interact with other medicines or lead to mistakes. Issues are more likely when starting a new prescription, changing doses or taking over-the-counter products alongside your regular meds. Knowing the risks and what to watch for can help you stay safe.

Check out our guide

Organisation Spotligh

Stroke Aotearoa NZ

Stroke Aotearoa is the national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by stroke. Their free helpline (0800 STROKE) connects anyone, including whānau, caregivers and health professionals with immediate advice and support. They also offer Community Stroke Navigators (Kaiārahi) to help people navigate the health system and a return to work service to support recovery and independence.

Learn more about Stroke Aotearoa NZ here

Kylie's kōrero: life after stroke

At just 33years old, Kylie Head, one of Healthify's very own WOVEN (Whānau Ora Voices of Experience Network) advisors, had a stroke that changed her life overnight. In her powerful kōrero, she shares the ups and downs of recovery, from the first overwhelming days in hospital to finding a new normal at home and looking ahead with hope and resilience.

Keep reading Kylie's kōrero here

Ask our experts

You asked, we delivered!

In our new segment, we’ll share answers to the questions you’ve been asking. Our health professionals will tackle the topics you want to know about. The first is one many of you asked, so we’ve made a quick video to explain everything you need to know. Got a burning question? Keep an eye on our website for chances to submit yours, it might be featured next!

Get the answer here

Digital Health

Support your bones with apps

Living with osteoporosis or worried about bone health? There are apps designed to help you build strength, improve balance and reduce the risk of fractures. From guided exercise programmes you can do at home to tools for tracking progress, these apps make managing osteoporosis more accessible.

Explore apps here

We'd love your support!

Learn More

Low on Data? Visit zero.govt.z to browse Healthify for free

Learn More

Visit Healthify He Puna for more health topic information

Learn More

Documents

No items found.

Have a different question?

You can now visit the Healthify He Puna Waiora website to get more health information without using any data on your phone. Tell your friend sand whānau!

Find out more about data-free access.