The results are in! Thanks to those who filled out our survey. Here are some tidbits based on what you told us.

1. Drinking water is vital to your health; it boosts metabolism and detoxifies your body. But did you know that
not drinking enough water ages your skin? Dehydration causes dry skin, which can lead to premature wrinkles. So, to the 65% of you who are drinking more, cheers!

2. It's no secret that to optimise your health (and shrink your belly), you need to eat as many wholefoods as possible. Processed foods, such as muffins, microwave popcorn and hot chips, contain trans fats, which can cause heart disease. A recent survey from the American Institute for Cancer Research says that cured meats, including sausages, salami and ham, are linked to an increased risk of colon cancer due to their chemical preservatives. Follow this rule of thumb: if your grandma wouldn't recognise it, don't eat it!

3. 45% of you drink less alcohol—well done! Nondrinkers have far less chance of developing cirrhosis of the liver and many types of cancer. If you stop sipping the nightly vino, you’ll see a marked improvement in your skin: you’ll have clearer pores, and it will generally be more vibrant and healthy-looking.

4. 41% of you are taking more vitamins. And did you know that a healthy dose of vitamin D not only reduces your risk of cancer and strengthens your bones, but also helps prevent PMS?

5. 25% of you have cut down on mobile-phone usage, as the debate rages on as to whether radiation from mobiles causes cancer; in other mobile-phone news, have you heard of Texter's Thumb? Repetitive pressing of the small keys on your phone can cause stress and strain on your joints.

6. Tired? Seems so. 51% of you want to get more sleep. We all know that a few nights of poor-quality or not enough sleep can cause fatigue, bad mood and lack of focus. But consistently getting more than nine hours of sleep is also associated with bad health, putting you more at risk of developing diabetes and obesity. There’s no golden snooze rule, but aim for seven to eight hours a night.
 7. 49% of you want to manage your stress levels—great news! But some stress can actually be good for you. Those short-term bursts of stress you get from small doses of hormones can help you perform tasks more efficiently, improve your memory and heart function, and make your body more resistant to infection. It’s when the stress hormones invade your body for more than 24 hours that the problems start and you’re at risk of long-term health problems.

8. 76% of you walk regularly. You'll get the most benefit from your daily walk if you aim for 30 to 60 minutes a day. If it's weight loss you’re looking for, try increasing your speed. You need to walk for an hour to see the same weight-loss benefits from a 30-minute jog. But build up gradually: the old adage that 'you have to learn to walk before you can run' is true, especially if you want to avoid injury!

9. On average, women spend less than three hours a week exercising—not enough if you want to lose weight. (You need to sweat for 45 to 60 minutes a day, every day, to achieve weight loss.) But incidental exercise, such as steps you walk up at work, counts! Try not to sit still for more than 30 minutes at a time to keep your heart rate pumping.

10. 31% of Victorians say that their energy levels are excellent. If you can’t say the same try fruit: the number-one pick-me-up. It contains the right amount of carbs, fibre, vitamins and minerals. So, rather than reaching for a chocolate bar or a sugary drink, grab an apple.

11. 47% of Territorians are in tune with their spiritual side. Although we're not saying “pray or be doomed”, research shows that those who are more spiritually enlightened visit doctors less, cope with stress more effectively and are less afraid of death. Religion not your thing? Try yoga or meditation instead.

12. 73% use healthy oils in your cooking. Avocado oil is a great choice: it’s full of proteins; vitamins D, E and A; beta-carotene; and lecithin. It also helps control cholesterol and fights free radicals. Beauty bonus: when you apply avocado oil topically, it can help ward off wrinkles and fight premature ageing.

13. 48% of you have cut down on food portions. A 2007 paper published in the Journal of Public Health Policy indicates that portion sizes from fast-food chains are two to five times larger than when they were first introduced about 50 years ago. It's no wonder our waistlines are getting bigger, too! Swap your dinner plate for a smaller side plate and avoid temptation by serving food directly onto individual plates rather having all the food on the table. And say no to junk food!

14. 39% of you want less time in front of a computer. And so you should! The hours you spend in front of your Mac or PC can play havoc with your eyes. Research from The College of Optometrists in the UK reveals that two out of five workers who use computers suffer from headaches, and more than half get tired eyes and have difficulty focusing. Make sure you take