7 Common Habits You Didn't Know Were Bad For Your Health
I'm guilty of a few of these things - are you?
Laura Hilton
04.17.18

Everything in moderation: a classic saying that people don’t often take into consideration when living day by day. There are some choices we make, including those of habit, that could be adversely affecting our health. Simple everyday tasks such as watching tv all weekend or overeating can lead to some serious health problems down the road.

Watching TV

Flickr/Sandra Vos
Source:
Flickr/Sandra Vos

With all of the entertainment options today that are web-based, you and everyone you know have or are currently binge-watching a series on Netflix or Hulu. However, doing so can be of great harm to your overall well being. Sitting for hours without regularly getting up to get your blood flowing can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. To combat this, try taking a 10-minute break after an episode or two and walk around the house to do a quick chore.

Deciding Not to Floss

Of course, it’s easier to ignore flossing after brushing your teeth, but doing so can put you at greater risk for gum and heart disease. There is a link between the two. If you don’t enjoy using traditional floss, opt for a Waterpik or floss picks with the attached handles for easier access to those hard to reach places.

Eating too Much

Flickr/ebru
Source:
Flickr/ebru

Overeating on a consistent basis can lead to being overweight and obesity. Obesity is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, and currently, more than one-third of adults in the U.S. are obese. Obesity can open the door to many other illnesses including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Dieting is not always the solution, but it certainly can’t help to create a meal plan with a healthy variety of food choices with limited fats and sugars. To help stave off cravings, try having a cheat meal or even a cheat day where you eat whatever you want.

Stressing

It is normal to have some stressors in your life, but it is recommended by the American Heart Association for people to find some relief in their daily lives to reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Talking to someone about your emotions such as a trusted friend or family member can do wonders. Exercise is also another option that will allow you to relieve tension.

Drinking Too Much Alcohol

Flickr/ambernambrose
Source:
Flickr/ambernambrose

Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk for certain cancers and heart problems. The AHA recommends one to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. Drinking more than recommended can lead to heart disease, cancer, and the possibility of developing alcoholism.

Eating too Much Salt

Flickr/Dubravko Sorić
Source:
Flickr/Dubravko Sorić

Those who eat too much salt may eventually have issues with their kidneys being able to keep the excess sodium in their bloodstream. This could eventually lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, or stroke.

Groups who are at most at risks when it comes to the overconsumption of salt include those who are over the age of 50, those who already experience issues with high blood pressure, those who have diabetes, and African Americans. Try to limit your salt intake by cutting back on prepared and fast foods. This includes deli meats, frozen meals, and canned goods.

Going to Bed Too Late

Flickr/Mike Brennan
Source:
Flickr/Mike Brennan

Being sleepy while at work and even while driving can make you more accident prone. According to WebMD, 100,000 auto crashes happen a year due to fatigue. Additionally, not getting enough sleep can put you at risk for disease and heart problems.

If you are guilty of committing one of these health crimes, you may find it is hard to change the bad habit. But with a solid plan in place, and taking it one step at a time, you can make changes that will better your health in the long run.

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Sources: [American Heart Association, American Heart Association, Bright Side, Center for Disease Control, Everyday Health, Harvard Public School of Health, WebMD]

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