Change Feels Hard Because Your Brain Likes Routine (Even Unhelpful Ones)

Ever feel like you know what you “should” be doing, but you just can’t seem to make it stick?

Whether it’s swapping late-night snacks for sleep, moving your body more, or planning better meals, usually, knowing isn’t the problem. It’s your brain.

If you’ve ever tried to change your eating habits, start a new exercise routine or get your energy back, only to feel frustrated, exhausted, or like you’re constantly starting over, you’re not alone.

And you’re not failing. You’re just trying to do something difficult without support.

A great midweek vegan dinner, this bhaji comes packed with chestnut mushrooms, garlic, ginger and turmeric.

This colourful salad is perfect for an al fresco lunch

One small change. Big results.

When it comes to improving your health, it’s tempting to want to do it all at once.

You might think:

“I’ll start eating better, cut out sugar, drink more water, get to bed earlier, AND do daily workouts…”

But here’s the truth: trying to change everything at once usually leads to changing nothing at all.

If you’ve ever told yourself, “I just need more willpower,” you’re not alone. Whether cutting back on sugar, getting to bed earlier, or trying to move more, many of us blame ourselves when we can’t stick with a healthy habit. But here’s the truth: it’s not about willpower.

Shred ginger, leeks and carrots into this umami-rich soup and top up with quinoa and kale for a nourishing meal

Ready in under an hour, this Greek one-pot is packed with plenty of fresh flavours as well as protein and fibre, making it a healthy vegetarian meal idea. Which is also gluten free and vegetarian

Packed with protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, eggs support steady energy, hormone production, and brain health. They’re quick, versatile, and delicious, perfect for busy mornings and simple evening meals.

A healthy dip, made with chickpeas and cannellini beans, which is full of protein and fibre

You're not alone if you’re constantly reaching for biscuits, crisps or chocolate to get through the afternoon. But there’s a smarter (and more satisfying) way to snack, and it comes in the form of nuts and seeds.

If you’re feeling more sluggish, forgetful, or just off balance lately, your body could be crying out for a nutritional top-up. And one of the simplest ways to boost your energy, support your hormones, and keep your mind sharp in mid-life is by eating more leafy greens.

This salad is perfect for BBQs. It is packed with flavour, and no cooking is required.

Enjoy these glorious roast aubergines with tomato rice and feta for a summer supper or al fresco lunch. You could also barbecue the aubergines, if you like

If you’ve been forgetting names, losing your train of thought, or just feeling a bit mentally sluggish, it’s not just you. Many people in their 40s and 50s experience dips in memory and focus. But nature has a powerful ally to help sharpen your mind: blueberries.

Struggling to sleep in your 40s and 50s? Learn why you could be tired but wired at the same time. Get five practical tips to improve your sleep.

This is a perfect breakfast or snack recipe. The beans are full of fibre, so they will keep you full until lunch.

Feeling bloated, gassy, or like your digestion has suddenly gone off track? You’re not imagining things. Many people in mid-life find that their gut becomes more sensitive, often for the first time.

Hormonal changes, stress, slower metabolism, and years of quick-fix diets can all affect your digestion. But the good news is: you can get things moving again, gently and naturally.

Struggling with stubborn weight gain in your 40s or 50s? Learn why it’s not just calories and discover real strategies that work for mid-life weight loss.

Have you found that what used to work for weight loss in your 30s no longer works? You eat less and move more, yet the scales won’t budge.

We all know UPFs aren’t great for us, but did you know they’re linked to serious health risks?