Have you ever sat and wondered about how many unhealthy things you're doing on a daily basis? Turns out, it's probably a lot. While sometimes it can't be helped, for the most part there are things you can do which will actively improve your health. In turn it will reduce your chance of getting ill, developing preventable disease and will overall make you feel much happier and healthier. Are you guilty of any of the following?
Sitting Down All Day
Many of us work sedentary jobs, and when you're sat behind a screen all day it doesn't provide much opportunity for exercise. However humans weren’t built to sit down all the time, and doing so can be very unhealthy. If you have a desk job, make an effort to get up every hour minutes for a drink of water and to stretch your legs. You could go for a walk at lunchtime, or even hit the gym before and after work. If you don't live too far from your work, you could consider ditching the car and cycling instead. You'll help the environment and get some exercise in in the process.
Second Hand Smoke
Being surrounded by second hand smoke, especially if you don't smoke yourself is frustrating and unhealthy. There are times when it just can't be helped, if you're sat around at a smoker's house or at a party, chances are you're going to breath some of it in. If you politely let people know you're a non smoker, some people might choose to smoke in another room or next to a window. If not, try and avoid these situations when you can. If you’re worried this could have had an adverse effect on you, go and see your doctor, you could even opt to see a private GP if you want to cut the waiting time. Always do your best to steer clear of anyone smoking.
Exposing Your Skin
Unless you're very vigilant when it comes to SPF (which means applying it every day regardless of the weather), chances are you expose your skin to the sun. This can lead to premature aging, cancers, discolouration and all kinds of negative side effects. If you use a moisturiser or foundation with added SPF you can kill two birds with one stone. On sunny days wear protective clothing such as light, long layers, sunglasses and a floppy hat. And stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day to avoid burning.
Staring At A Screen
Do you spend a lot of time staring at a screen? Not only could this be turning you into a modern day zombie, you could be damaging your eyesight too. It’s a good idea to take a break from the screen at least once every half an hour, and practice looking at different distances to avoid impacting your vision. Try having a break from your smartphone if you’re addicted!
Failing To Get Quality Sleep
Quality sleep is so important, it isn’t just about how many hours you get. If you're constantly waking up or being disturbed you'll get up in the morning feeling horrendous even if you've been in bed for eight hours. Wind down before bed, try sleep tea, and take hot baths if you struggle to drop off. Stay away from bright lights for at least an hour. Make your room ideal for sleep by removing electronics too! If you're a light sleeper, ear plugs and an eye mask might help you maintain deep sleep. And if you have pets that wake you up during the night, try putting them in another room.
Eating Too Much Meat
Vegetables should fill half of your plate at each meal, with a quarter starch (potatoes, grains, pasta) and the other quarter meat. Don't make meat the star of the show and vegetables an afterthought, each meal should be balanced to give you the nutrition you need. Not only will you save money since meat is always the most expensive thing on your plate, but you will feel lighter and healthier too.
