Smoking and Other Negative Lifestyle Habits You Need to Kick to the Curb This Year

by

11 November 2020

Health & Fitness

Smoking

The COVID-19 pandemic has made us more cognizant of our mortality. Many people are starting to become more aware of the importance of healthy living. Smoking are responsible for up to 90% of all lung cancer diagnoses, as well as many other types of cancer.

One of the most important steps towards a healthier lifestyle is identifying and breaking self-destructive habits. You almost certainly have at least one bad habit that is threatening your health and well-being. Your quality of life and life expectancy will drastically improve if you take the correct action.

Here are some highly unhealthy habits that you should avoid at all costs.

Smoking Tobacco

Cigarettes are probably the least healthy mainstream habit in the United States. They are responsible for more preventable deaths than anything else. Although the prevalence of smoking has dropped drastically since the 1970s, 480,000 people still die of cigarette use every year. Cigarettes are responsible for up to 90% of all lung cancer diagnoses, as well as many other types of cancer.

In addition to causing premature deaths, cigarettes also hurt your quality of life in numerous ways. They cause vision problems, depression, anxiety, impaired lung function, and many other serious issues.

If you are a regular smoker, your number one priority should be to quit. This is the single biggest change in your life that will benefit your health. You can try using tobacco free dip to move away from cigarettes.

Consuming Food Late In The Evening

You might be tempted to have late-night snacks. There might be a number of reasons for this. Perhaps you didn’t get enough protein with your dinner. You might have eaten dinner too early in the evening, which leaves you feeling hungry an hour or two before bedtime. You might simply feel like snacking to alleviate anxiety.

Regardless of the reason, eating snacks late at night creates multiple health risks. It is a precursor to weight gain because your body can’t process the food as efficiently as late at night. Late-night snacks also tend to disrupt your sleep patterns. You might have trouble falling asleep at all and struggle to reach deep REM sleep when you finally doze off.

Eating Too Much Meat

Hot dogs, hamburgers, and ham sandwiches are major staples in the western diet. Meat isn’t just tasty. It also is a rich source of protein.

Unfortunately, many people consume meat excessively. You may develop a number of health problems if you eat too much of it, especially red meat.

What health risks can it create? Regular consumption of processed and red meat increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and multiple types of cancer. A research team from the Harvard School of Public Health found that eating one serving of processed red meat every day increased the risk of death from cardiovascular disease or cancer by 20%.

You don’t need to become a vegan. However, you should minimize your consumption of meat and reserve red meat for special occasions.

Using Your Smartphone Too Often (Especially In The Evening)

Smartphones are the newest addition that is taking over our lives. Unfortunately, they are so widely accepted that most people refuse to acknowledge the toll that they are taking on our health.

Excessive smartphone use can be debilitating in a number of ways, such as:

  • People that use smartphones regularly are more likely to suffer from back and neck problems. Every time that you look down to use your mobile device, you are putting around 60 pounds of pressure on your spine.
  • You have a higher risk of developing vision problems. The light from your smartphone screen can cause long-term damage to your retina. Your eyes might also start to suffer from nearsightedness since you aren’t spending enough time looking out long distances.
  • Your mobile devices might also disrupt your sleep patterns. If you are using them late at night, then you might be throwing off your circadian rhythms. You will have a harder time falling asleep and get less restorative REM sleep as well.

You can’t be in denial about the problems that your smartphone is causing. You need to use it in moderation to prevent back, neck, and sleep problems.

Read Also:

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

High Cholesterol

Health Tips For Managing High Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels can be caused by your hereditary makeup, a diet high in excess fat, and obesity. If you've lately been diagnosed with high cholesterol, discussed below are tips to combat the condition: Health Tips For Managing High Cholesterol: 1. Track the Cholesterol Level Frequently As stated by the American Heart Association, the risk of a heart attack with a total cholesterol level of 240 mg/dl is twice as high as for a person with a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dl. Most doctors want total cholesterol below 200 mg/dl, meaning that LDL (bad cholesterol) is less than 130, and HDL (good cholesterol) is above 40. Observing or monitoring your cholesterol level can help you achieve the right cholesterol balance. 2. Read Resources by Yourself Ensure you explore the topic of cholesterol and learn as much as you can. Remember that our body produces and makes use of cholesterol to help execute certain vital functions, such as building new cells and creating hormones. It appears that low HDL levels can intensify your risk of heart problems. Saturated fats in most foodstuffs are blamed for increasing cholesterol. It is important to identify treatment options that are accessible to both conventional medicine and substitute treatments so that you can make a good decision. The choice of traditional or alternative medicine is determined by your present cholesterol level, your overall health, and your way of life. Some people like to take statins to lower cholesterol, while others do all they can to evade them. Make sure you tell your doctor about all of the treatment methods you have chosen. 3. Lose Weight If you're carrying some excess weight, dropping part of it can lower cholesterol, as well as improve your overall health. Being overweight can interrupt normal fat metabolism. Do not start on an accelerated diet, but watch for a slow and stable loss of half to one pound per week. Combining this with regular exercise can lower your risk of high blood pressure and diabetes. 4. Exercise Regularly Spend 30 minutes a day walking briskly or doing moderate exercises such as cycling, aerobics, swimming, or running. Following the NHS exercise recommendations are useful for lowering dietary fat and the risk of heart disease. 5. Make a Distinction between Good and Bad Fats Research has revealed that a diet rich in monounsaturated fats lowers the risk of coronary heart disease by decreasing LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL. This kind of good fat is found in olive and peanut oils, avocados, and nuts (mainly walnuts and almonds). Also, the unsaturated cholesterol counteracts swelling in the arteries and prevent damage to the blood vessels. Limit your intake of saturated fats (mainly animal products such as cheese, butter, fatty meat, and whole milk) and trans-fats (salad dressing, margarine, cakes, pastries, and snacks) as these can increase cholesterol levels. Omega-3 fatty acids are an additional group of HDL. They are found in oily fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines. They can decrease LDL and triglycerides. However, to benefit from omega-3, you need to lower your total saturated fat intake. 6. Increase in Fiber Consumption Vegetarians are known to have lower fat levels and a lesser risk of heart disease than meat lovers. Plant products, such as fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and beans, are all high in fiber. There are two main types of fiber - soluble and insoluble, with the soluble form lowering cholesterol absorption in the arteries. 7. Eat Compound Starches Whole grain pasta, root vegetables, brown rice, barley, oats, and whole-grain dough are complex starches that are not just high in roughage, but also have many vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and Life essentials nutrition. They help lower cholesterol. Try to reduce your consumption of refined starches like cookies and white bread, as this can increase the risk of high cholesterol. 8. Drink Green Tea A good and healthy substitute for soft drinks and other sugary drinks is green tea. Studies have revealed that it aids in lowering LDL cholesterol. 9. Eliminate Stress Studies have found a link between job stress and disturbances in cholesterol levels. Stress and the associated emotions such as fear, tension, depression, and anger cause the discharge of hormones that tighten the arteries, reduce the flow of blood to the heart, and increase blood pressure and heart rate. These reactions, along with increased cholesterol, can significantly increase the likelihood of a heart attack. To get rid of stress, leave the situation by taking a short walk, taking a deep breath, meditating, stretching, or listening to soft music. This allows you to cool down and relax. 10. Stop Smoking Smoking not only lowers HDL, which is the good cholesterol, but it also comes with a whole host of adverse health effects, such as an increased risk of many cancers, stroke, and heart disease. Following these tips will go a long way to ensuring your cholesterol level returns to the normal range. Losing weight, exercising regularly, and improving your diet are also great for your health and general well-being, so there's no excuse for avoiding these positive changes. Read Also: 11 Effective Ways To Improve Testosterone Levels In Your Body 5 Natural Immune System Supplement Tips for Cold and Flu Season

READ MOREDetails
Yoga

10 Health Problems Eased by Yoga

Yoga originated over 4,000 years ago as a spiritual practice. Over time, however, health and wellness experts have found that there are many physical benefits as well. Now, yoga is as much of physical practice as it is a spiritual one. While yoga is not a substitute for traditional healthcare, as a compliment, it can help ease symptoms associated with a variety of health problems. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), people are increasingly using yoga to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, and to improve their overall health. So what are the health problems that yoga can help with? Put together by a Portland yoga studio, let’s take a look at 10 health conditions that researchers show yoga can ease. 10 Health Problems Eased by Yoga 1. Chronic Stress: Practicing yoga may be helpful in relieving chronic stress. A regular yoga practice can reduce your stress response and provide options for self-soothing and better management of stress. 2. Anxiety: A study in the Journal of Preventative Medicine shows that yoga can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety. When used alongside other treatment methods, it is helpful in reducing anxiety and helping patients manage their symptoms. 3. Heart Health: Practicing yoga has been shown in studies to reduce the risk of heart disease. When practiced as part of an overall healthy lifestyle, yoga can be used to improve heart health and reduce the risk of dangerous diseases. 4. Brain Health: Practicing yoga could be beneficial in improving brain health. Researchers report that people who practiced yoga for 14 years had thicker brain tissue in the areas responsible for memory and attention than their peers. 5. Chronic Back Pain: People who suffer from chronic back pain may find some relief through a regular yoga practice. Research shows that yoga can reduce back pain and improve mental health in people with chronic pain. Researchers note that yoga and other stretching exercises are both beneficial in this way. 6. Improve Balance: Yoga is a great way to improve balance. This is important, especially for older adults. Some studies suggest that a regular yoga practice can reduce the risk of falls in older adults. This is a promising option for older adults to get low-impact and meaningful exercise. 7. Thyroid Function: Research in Medical News Today suggests that stress can lead to improper thyroid function. Fortunately, practicing yoga can reduce stress, which in turn, helps improve thyroid function. Research is ongoing, but studies suggest yoga could potentially help ease medical conditions like hypo-and hyperthyroidism. 8. Diabetes: Research in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research shows that a regular yoga practice can reduce blood glucose (blood sugar) levels. For people with Type 2 diabetes, not only could they lower their glucose levels naturally, but they also may be slowing down progression of the disease. 9. Atrial Fibrillation: Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition where the upper chambers of the heart don’t contract as they should. This can cause symptoms like dizziness, palpitations, and shortness of breath. It also increases the risk of heart failure. Research shows, however, that practicing yoga at least twice weekly can improve symptoms. When added as part of a regular treatment plan, yoga can help improve heart function and manage stress. 10. Boost Immune System: Health conditions related to chronic stress account for 60 to 80 percent of all visits to primary care doctors. Several studies now show that practicing yoga can reduce stress, and as a result, also reduce the symptoms caused by it. Chronic stress and illness weaken the immune system, but a regular yoga practice could be the key to naturally averting some of these illnesses. As you can see, there are many benefits to practicing yoga. The next time you talk to your doctor, ask him or her about the possible benefits of adding yoga to your treatment plan. Read Also: How To Live Stress-Free Effects of Anxiety on Heart Disease 5 Ways To Get Healthier In The New Year Some Famous People Who Have Battled with Depression 10 Tips on How to Ditch the Stress and Start Living a Peaceful Life

READ MOREDetails
Transformative Power Of Treadmill Ownership

Discover The Transformative Power Of Treadmill Ownership: Beyond Exercise

Finding time for regular exercise can be a real challenge in our fast-paced world. Between work, family, and other commitments, it's easy for fitness to take a back seat. But what if I told you that buying a treadmill could profoundly impact your life beyond just helping you break a sweat? This blog explores how it can positively impact your overall well-being, spanning health and fitness, time and convenience, family and social life, and even financial savings when you buy a treadmill. Health And Fitness Let's start with the most apparent aspect: a treadmill is a fantastic tool for improving physical health. The benefits are manifold, and they extend beyond mere calorie burning: Caloric Expenditure Treadmills offer a versatile platform for calorie expenditure. Whether you prefer a brisk walk, a steady jog, or a full-on sprint, you can adjust your workout to match your fitness level and goals. This versatility enables you to tailor your exercise regimen to your specific needs, whether you want to lose weight, maintain fitness, or build endurance. Cardiovascular Health The heart is a muscle; like any other muscle, it benefits from exercise. Regular treadmill workouts increase your heart rate and improve circulation, helping to prevent cardiovascular diseases. Reduced blood pressure and healthier cholesterol levels are additional perks of consistent treadmill use. Endurance Enhancement Your body adapts to the challenges you present, and a treadmill is an excellent tool for gradually increasing your stamina and endurance. Over time, you'll find yourself capable of going longer and faster, whether training for a marathon or just aiming to keep up with your kids during a game of tag. Stress Management Exercise is a proven stress reliever. The release of endorphins during and after a workout can leave you feeling more relaxed, positive, and equipped to handle the challenges of daily life. With a treadmill, you can quickly de-stress and regain mental equilibrium whenever needed. Time And Convenience One of the most significant benefits of owning a treadmill is its unparalleled convenience. No more commuting to the gym or worrying about unfavorable weather conditions. Here's how this newfound convenience can impact your life: Time Efficiency With a treadmill in your home, you can exercise whenever it suits your schedule. Say goodbye to the time wasted in traffic or waiting for your favorite machine at the gym. A quick 20-minute treadmill session before work or during your lunch break can be a game-changer for busy individuals. Weather-Proof Workout Rain, snow, or scorching heat will keep you from achieving your fitness goals. A treadmill provides a consistent, climate-controlled environment for your workouts. This eliminates excuses for inclement weather and ensures your fitness journey remains uninterrupted. Privacy And Comfort Some people may feel self-conscious or uncomfortable working out in front of others. With a treadmill at home, you can exercise in complete privacy, wearing whatever makes you feel most comfortable—no judgment, no distractions—just you and your fitness goals. Family And Social Life The impact of owning a treadmill extends beyond your health and well-being; it can positively influence your family and social life as well: Family Fitness Encourage your family members to join in on the fitness journey. A treadmill can be a fun and inclusive way to spend time together while staying active. Imagine family challenges to see who can run the most miles in a month or weekend "fun runs" in the comfort of your home. These shared experiences can strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. Social Connection Many modern treadmills come equipped with built-in screens and connectivity features. You can take virtual running classes, compete with friends and family online, or watch your favorite TV shows or movies while working out. This makes exercise more engaging and social, allowing you to stay connected with loved ones or indulge in some much-needed entertainment while staying active. Financial Savings Beyond the numerous health and lifestyle benefits, owning a treadmill can lead to significant financial savings in the long run: Gym Membership Costs Over time, the cost of a gym membership can add up substantially. Investing in a treadmill will eliminate these recurring expenses, saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year. Your treadmill will pay for itself in the long run. Healthcare Costs Regular exercise is a proven way to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Investing in your health through regular treadmill workouts may lower your long-term healthcare expenses, avoiding costly treatments and medications associated with preventable health issues. Conclusion Buying a treadmill can have a profound and far-reaching impact on your life. Invest, and watch how it transforms your life. Your health, well-being, and overall quality of life will thank you for it. So, take that first step and embark on a journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life with a treadmill by your side. Read Also: 6 Effective Ways to Improve Your Mental Health Psychedelic Therapy for Mental Health Conditions The Future Of Healthcare: Adapting To An Aging Society

READ MOREDetails