An essential part of a healthy lifestyle is understanding which habits to avoid. Unfortunately, some habits often recommended for good health may be damaging in the long run. Here are some “good” habits that may harm your health and derail your well-being.
Replacing Breakfast With Smoothie
Although smoothies can be a great way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, they should not replace breakfast altogether. Smoothies are often high in sugar, leading to an energy crash later.
Eating a balanced meal with whole grains, protein, and healthy fats will give you the sustained energy you need to get through your day.
Drinking Water
Everyone tells you to drink plenty of water daily, but consuming too much can be unhealthy. Overhydration can cause your body to lose essential minerals and electrolytes, a condition known as hyponatremia. It’s best to trust your thirst and listen to your body. Drink when you need to, and don’t overdo it.
Eating Salad Every Day
Eating plenty of vegetables is advisable, but eating salad daily can harm your health. Overeating one type of food can cause nutritional deficiencies and health problems. Besides, some people add too much dressing, making the salad unhealthy or calorie-laden.
Vary your diet and include a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and healthy fats to ensure you’re getting a balanced nutritional intake.
Cutting Out Sweets and Treats From Your Diet
Sweets and treats should be enjoyed in moderation, but cutting them out of your diet is not a good idea. Everyone needs a little indulgence once in a while to keep cravings at bay and maintain a healthy relationship with food. It’s okay to give into the occasional craving as long as you practice portion control and don’t overindulge. If you cut treats out entirely, chances are you’ll be more likely to binge on them when you eventually give in.
Pushing Yourself Too Hard at the Gym
Exercise is vital for a healthy body and mind, but pushing yourself too hard at the gym can lead to injury or burnout. Listen to your body and take rest days when needed. Give yourself time to recover between workouts and stretch before and after exercise.
You are not in competition with anybody, so take it easy and don’t feel the need to outdo anyone. Go with a pace that works for you, and don’t overexert yourself.
Peeling Apples and Potatoes Before Eating Them
Peeling fruits and vegetables before eating them is common, but this can strip away essential nutrients. Eating the skin of apples and potatoes provides beneficial fiber, vitamins, and minerals that your body needs.
Before you reach for the peeler next time, consider leaving the skin on. As long as you rinse your produce before eating, there’s no need to peel it away.
Drinking Coffee Every Day
Most people start their day with a cup of coffee, but daily consumption can have side effects. Too much caffeine can lead to restlessness, insomnia, and digestive problems. It’s okay to enjoy your daily cup of joe in moderation, but try not to rely on it as your only energy source.
If you need an extra boost during the day, try drinking a cup of green tea or yerba mate instead. These beverages contain less caffeine and more antioxidants, which can improve your overall health.
Not Eating Before a Workout Session
If you plan to do an intense workout, fuel your body with food beforehand. Going into a workout session on an empty stomach can make you feel weak and will not give you the energy for a successful workout.
Eat something light like a piece of fruit, a handful of nuts, or some oatmeal with almond milk about an hour before you hit the gym. This food will give your body the fuel to power through your workout and get results.
Preferring Turkey Bacon to Regular Bacon
It’s common to think that turkey bacon is healthier than regular bacon, but this isn’t necessarily true. Turkey bacon has less fat and calories than regular bacon but doesn’t contain as many nutrients.
Regular bacon is a good source of vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium. If you’re going to eat bacon, opt for the regular kind in moderation.
Believing “Healthy” or “Natural” Labels on Food Items
When you’re at the grocery store, it’s easy to be fooled by food items that are labeled “healthy,” “low-carb.” or “natural.” Just because something has a health halo doesn’t mean it is healthy.
Reading the nutrition facts label can help you make better grocery shopping decisions. Pay attention to ingredients, portion sizes, and nutrition facts like fat, sodium, and sugar. Don’t be fooled by labels; make sure you know what you eat.
Going for Low-Fat Dairy Products
Low-fat dairy products may have fewer calories but are not always the healthiest choice. The fat in milk and other dairy items helps absorb certain vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and calcium. Without it, your body cannot absorb these essential nutrients.
Full-fat dairy is better than low-fat. Choose plain, unsweetened dairy products and only eat them in moderation.
Getting Too Much Sleep
A good night’s sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind, but getting too much sleep can be just as harmful as not enough. Studies have found that people who sleep more than nine hours per night are at higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
It’s important to get the right amount of sleep, typically seven to nine hours for adults.
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This article was produced by Health Makes You.