Bad habits

8 Common Bad Habits You Need To Stop Immediately

There are a lot of bad habits we subconsciously make which negatively affect our health. We agree that nobody can be a health guru 100 percent of the time, so if you have a few bad habits, you are not alone. However, it’s important we start building good habits and breaking bad ones. Any positive lifestyle change can make a big difference in our health. After all, it’s a big step towards achieving those health goals you set for 2020. You may not even know what these unhealthy bad habits are. That’s why we have compiled a list of common bad habits we make every day.

Skipping Breakfast

8 Common Bad Habits You Need To Stop Immediately Photo by Julian Jagtenberg from Pexels

It’s understandable if you occasionally skip breakfast because you are in a haste, too busy or aren’t feeling hungry at that moment. The keyword is occasionally, which means you should not make it a habit. Skipping breakfast is a no-no for your health. The saying ‘Breakfast is the most important meal of the day’ is absolutely correct. When you skip breakfast, you are most likely to overeat later in the day. Make this a habit and watch those extra calories lead to weight gain.

Not getting enough sleep

Sleep is not for the weak. I repeat, sleep is not for the weak. Getting enough sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. It plays an important role in staying healthy. Sleep deprivation leads to many health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, an impaired immune system, diabetes, fatigue, stroke, poor mental health, decreased concentration, and even depression. You also tend to be more productive, have a retentive memory and are focused for the rest of the day. Give your body the ZZZs it needs.

Using your phone in bed

If you surf the internet or play on your phone before you sleep, today it should come to an end. It is a major cause of sleep deprivation. Electronic gadgets such as phones and computers give off blue light. This light decreases your level of melatonin – a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle – and messes up your sleep. In bed, put your phones away and try reading a book or listening to music.

Nail Biting

Everything is wrong with biting your fingernails, everything. This can damage your teeth as well as your nail bed because germs are transferred from your mouth to your fingernails. You can get sick when you bite your fingernails, which carry germs into your mouth. Nail-biting is a subconscious response to stress. If you are having difficulty with quitting this bad habit, talk to a doctor.

Eating quickly

This is a very common bad habit. Why are you rushing your food? It’s YOUR food and no one else. So, take small bites, chew slowly and savor the taste of the food. Eating too fast leaves you less satisfied and makes you overeat later in the day. It can also lead to several health issues such as heart problems, acid reflux and bloating. Make an effort to stop rushing your food, you’d be glad you did.

Overusing Painkillers

Regular use of over-the-counter drugs and supplements can cause kidney damage. No matter what kind of drug you take, it would take a trip through your kidneys. When taken in excessive amounts, they lead to serious complications. Only take medications prescribed by your doctor and do not self medicate.

Slouching

Slouching is a very bad posture that can ruin your health. Most people are unaware of when they slouch. Slouching has a big impact on the rest of your body. It can alter your spine structure and cause neck and body pain. Slouching at your desk can also give a tension headache.

Going to bed without brushing your teeth

You should never go to bed without brushing your teeth. It’s really gross. The importance of brushing your teeth twice a day goes beyond fresh breath. It’s a vital part of dental hygiene. By not brushing your teeth at night, you end up with plaque buildup which causes tooth cavity, tooth decay, and gum disease. Brushing your teeth also reduces your desire to snack at night. Other bad habits worthy of mention are; Not drinking enough water, Smoking, Excess consumption of alcohol, Eating Junks, Living a sedentary lifestyle. Are there other common bad habits that are not on this list? Drop your comment in the comments box below. If you enjoyed reading this, we have more for you here. Check out some of our best articles on Health and Lifestyle and follow our feed on Instagram.