health and habits 5

10 bad habits that affect your health

Part 5

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You eat well. You exercise. You go to bed early. All in all, you’re trying your best to look after your health. If you want to lead a long, fruitful life, staying on top of all of the above is absolutely vital. But did you know there are many simple bad habits that could be destroying all your hard work? Without further ado, let’s take a look at 10 things that could be negatively affecting your wellness.

Guzzling energy drinks

When you need a buzz, reaching for an energy drink may be the quickest way to get your fix. As convenient as they may be, energy drinks could harm your blood vessel function, according to research from the American Heart Association. Sipping on some green tea instead could be a healthier way to perk you up.

Working long hours

Hoping to get ahead in the workplace? You might think nothing of pulling a couple of late shifts. But working excessively long hours has been linked to higher rates of depression in women, according to research published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. If you want to look after your mental health, you need to maintain a stable work-life balance.

Binging on social media

Social media is a central part of modern life. But how much is toomuch? If you spend the best part of the day on Instagram or Facebook, you might need to curb your usage. One study from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that spending too much time on these sites could lead to high levels of both loneliness and depression.

Frequently taking painkillers

When you’ve got a headache or cramps, taking a painkiller might seem like a fast way to ease the discomfort. However, research published in the British Medical Journal suggests that taking some of the most common painkillers on a regular basis could be linked to heart problems. Try looking for natural alternatives instead.

Eating too much “bad fat”

Is your diet rife with bad fats? One animal study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham suggests that there is a link between high-fat diets and heart disease. Common examples of unhealthy fats include red meat, dairy products, and processed meals. Avoid eating too much of these food products to protect your health.

Dining out

When date night comes around, there’s nothing more romantic than heading to a local eatery. Eating out in cafés and fast-food restaurants has been linked with exposure to harmful chemicals, known as phthalates, according to research from George Washington University. Why not cook a healthy meal at home instead?

Thinking negative thoughts

Are you guilty of negative self-talk? What you think (and, ultimately, believe) can have an impact on your physical health. On the flip side, research from the University of Exeter found that being kind to yourself and thinking positive thoughts could yield many benefits. These advantages include lowering the risk of disease and improving your mood.

Waking up late

Buzz buzz buzz. Your alarm rings. Without moving the rest of your body, you stretch your arm outward and turn it off. If you’re a naturally late riser, it could be time to change your routine. Research from the University of Colorado at Boulder suggests that early birds are less prone to depression. Hit the hay earlier so you get enough sleep.

Skipping naps

When you’re feeling sleepy, having a midday nap is a real joy. While many people are under the impression that this is lazy or slovenly, it could be a healthy habit. Research from the American College of Cardiology suggests that indulging in short periods of sleep during the day can help people control their blood pressure levels.

Not tracking your diet

Do you take note of what you eat on a daily basis? If the answer is no, you might want to start doing so. One study from Drake University found that tracking food—either in a diary or with an app—could help you lose weight. Should you struggle with overeating, you might find that this habit is ideal for you.

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