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

Published on: 11 November 2020 Last Updated on: 23 November 2020
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:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.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

Related

Hospice Chaplains

Journeying With The Dying: How Hospice Chaplains Facilitate End-Of-Life Spiritual Transitions

When individuals approach the twilight of their lives, they often confront a whirlwind of emotions—fear, regret, hope, acceptance, and more. This intense period termed the end-of-life phase, sees many grappling with existential questions and seeking answers to life's most profound mysteries. This search for clarity and solace is where the spiritual dimension of human existence comes to the forefront. Many turn to spirituality as a source of comfort, a beacon of hope, and a framework for making sense of their experiences. It's within this complex tapestry of emotions and spiritual quests that hospice chaplains, representing the realm of hospice chaplaincy, emerge as pivotal figures. These professionals dedicate themselves to guiding individuals through this intricate journey, helping them find spiritual serenity amidst the tumultuous currents of approaching mortality. The subsequent sections delve deeper into understanding the multifaceted role of these spiritual caregivers. The Integral Role of a Hospice Chaplain Defining the Role in Greater Detail: Hospice chaplains stand at the crossroads of spirituality and caregiving. They aren't just religious figures; they are trained professionals skilled in offering spiritual support tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Their role goes beyond mere ritualistic practices. They act as confidants, counselors, and guides, providing a listening ear, heartfelt advice, and spiritual interventions tailored to the individual's beliefs and wishes. Whether helping patients find peace with their life's journey, facilitating forgiveness and reconciliation, or simply being present during moments of deep reflection, hospice chaplains are there to ensure that the spiritual dimension of end-of-life care is addressed with the utmost sensitivity and respect. The Spectrum of Interfaith Approaches: One of the most remarkable aspects of hospice chaplaincy is its inclusiveness. Recognizing the diverse tapestry of beliefs and spiritual outlooks in our globalized world, hospice chaplains are trained to cater to various religious and spiritual traditions. Whether a person identifies with a major world religion, a lesser-known spiritual path, or even if they consider themselves secular or agnostic, chaplains are there to provide support. This approach ensures that every individual, irrespective of their belief system, has access to spiritual care that resonates with them. By adopting such an inclusive approach, hospice chaplains affirm the idea that every end-of-life journey is unique and every individual's spiritual needs deserve to be met with understanding, respect, and personalized care. The end-of-life journey is a deeply personal and transformative phase. While medical professionals focus on alleviating physical pain and discomfort, hospice chaplains address the soul's yearnings, questions, and quest for peace. By offering tailored spiritual interventions and an inclusive approach that honors diverse beliefs, they ensure that individuals and their families find the spiritual solace they seek during these poignant moments. Delving Deeper: Spiritual Needs, Interventions, and Family Impact in the End-of-Life Journey Spiritual Needs at the End of Life Seeking Meaning and Purpose: The imminence of death often prompts deep introspection. Many individuals reflect upon their life's journey, trying to discern its purpose. These reflections might encompass personal achievements, missed opportunities, unfulfilled dreams, and significant life events. In such times, spiritual guidance assists individuals in navigating these contemplations, helping them find peace with their life narrative, celebrating accomplishments, and making peace with regrets. Reconciliation: Estrangements and unresolved conflicts become especially poignant during the end-of-life phase. Many individuals desire to reconnect, apologize, or seek forgiveness from loved ones. The urge to mend relationships, settle old disputes, or express unspoken feelings becomes vital. The spiritual guide aids in facilitating these reconciliations, offering counsel, and, if necessary, acting as a mediator. Fear and Hope: The mystery of what comes after death is a source of both trepidation and anticipation. The fear of the unknown contrasts starkly with hopes or beliefs of an afterlife, reincarnation, or spiritual continuation. By addressing these concerns, chaplains help balance these emotions, emphasizing the transformative nature of death in various spiritual traditions. Cultural and Traditional Rites: Every culture and religion has rituals that honor the dying and the deceased. Whether it's a specific prayer, a song, a way, or even silence, these rites are paramount for the person passing and their family. Respecting and facilitating these practices is crucial to providing a sense of closure, continuity, and respect for the individual's spiritual and cultural identity. Interventions by Hospice Chaplains Active Listening: One of the most profound gifts a chaplain can offer is the gift of presence—simply being there, offering a listening ear. By actively listening, they provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to voice their deepest feelings, concerns, and reflections, guided.  Meditations and Prayers: Tailoring spiritual practices to individual needs, chaplains might guide patients through meditations or prayers that align with their beliefs. These sessions can instill a sense of calm, acceptance, and connection with the divine or the universe. Scripture Readings: For those who find solace in religious texts, chaplains can read passages that resonate with the patient's current emotions or questions. Scriptures, whether from the Bible, Quran, Torah, Bhagavad Gita, or other religious texts, can offer comfort, guidance, and a sense of continuity. Ritual Facilitation: Be it sacraments, candle lighting, or even non-religious rituals like listening to a specific song or watching a sunset, chaplains assist in organizing and facilitating these rites, ensuring the  Grief Support: The dying process isn't just about the individual; it encompasses the family and loved ones. Chaplains extend their support to these grieving souls, offering a shoulder to lean on, words of comfort, and guidance through their emotional journey. The Impact on Families Emotional Anchoring: In the tumultuous sea of emotions, chaplains act as an anchor for families. Their calm presence and experience in navigating such situations provide a stabilizing effect, helping families cope more effectively. Guidance through Rituals: Families often seek direction in performing end-of-life rituals correctly and meaningfully. Chaplains offer insights, respect cultural nuances, and sometimes even take the lead in ensuring these rites are conducted reverently. After-death Support: The journey doesn't end with the passing of a loved one. Grief, memories, and the void left behind are real and profound. Chaplains continue to support families, providing bereavement counseling, helping them process their loss, and guiding them toward healing and acceptance. The spiritual dimensions of the end-of-life journey are intricate, deeply personal, and encompass more than just the dying individual. Hospice chaplains, with their nuanced understanding, play an instrumental role in ensuring that this journey, for both the individual and their families, is navigated with dignity, respect, and profound compassion. Continuous Education and Self-care Training: The importance of ongoing training for chaplains to stay updated on best practices and religious rites. Self-care Rituals: Chaplains must cultivate personal rituals or practices to manage their well-being. Peer Support: Engaging with fellow chaplains or professionals to discuss challenges and share experiences. Conclusion The journey towards the end of life is deeply personal, and the spiritual terrain can be complex. Hospice chaplains, with their expertise and compassion, play an indispensable role in facilitating spiritual transitions during this phase. Their ability to address the deep-seated spiritual needs of the dying and their families ensures that the end-of-life journey is one of meaning, reconciliation, and peace. Read Also: Navigating Healthcare: Exploring The Harvest Tech Achievers ETF Seven Stages To Creating A Patient-Friendly Healthcare App The Future Of Healthcare: Adapting To An Aging Society

READ MOREDetails
Clear Aligners

Why Are Clear Aligners Popular For Winnipeg Teens?

Winnipeg, the vibrant heart of Canada's Manitoba province, is a city woven with diverse cultures, historical significance, and a youthful vibrancy. This bustling prairie city, home to the iconic intersection at Portage and Main, boasts sprawling urban parks and a community keen on embracing innovation. Among these trends is the rising preference for Invisalign Winnipeg, a clear aligner system that is gaining popularity, particularly among the teenage population. The Appeal of Aesthetics For teens in Winnipeg who live in a city that celebrates events like the Festival du Voyageur and the Winnipeg Folk Festival, maintaining a presentable image is often part of the social fabric. Clear aligners offer a discreet way to improve dental alignment without the visual impact of metal braces. These virtually invisible trays enable teens to smile confidently while attending school events, proms, and casual get-togethers. Comfort and Convenience Factors Another crucial aspect of clear aligners that resonates with this age group is the comfort and convenience they provide. The custom-fitted trays are designed to snugly cover the teeth without the discomfort of brackets and wires associated with traditional braces. This is particularly beneficial in a city known for its love of hearty foods and active lifestyles. Teens can easily remove their aligners to enjoy a plate of Winnipeg's famous pierogies or a social barbeque at The Forks without hassle. Oral Health Benefits When it comes to good oral hygiene, clear aligners simplify the process. The ability to remove the aligners allows for thorough cleaning of the teeth, leading to better overall oral health. This is an attractive feature for Winnipeg's health-conscious families who understand the importance of a solid dental care routine amidst their busy lives filled with schoolwork and extracurricular activities. Tailored to Teen Lifestyles Aligner treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, making them a suitable option for the varied lifestyles of Winnipeg's teens. Whether they are aspiring performers at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre or athletes on the hockey rink, clear aligners don't impose significant lifestyle restrictions. This customization and flexibility are aligned with the city's spirit of personal freedom and individual expression. The Role of Technology in Adoption The city's engagement with technological advancement also plays a role in the popularity of aligners. With the availability of Invisalign in Winnipeg, orthodontists provide a cutting-edge, digitally-driven approach to teeth straightening. This resonates deeply with a generation that is not only tech-savvy but also values precision and customization in their dental care solutions. Social Perception and Peer Influence Social perception plays a significant role in a teen's choice of clear aligners. In the social dynamics of high school, where peer influence is paramount, the discreet nature of clear aligners means teens can avoid the 'brace face' stigma and feel more comfortable in their social circles. Supportive Dental Communities Winnipeg's dental community is known for its supportive and informative approach. Dentists and orthodontists in the city are at the forefront of educating families about the benefits of clear aligners, contributing to their popularity. Regular seminars and school programs help demystify orthodontic options and reinforce the advantages of newer, less invasive methods. Long-Term Investment and Future Smiles Finally, Winnipeg families view clear aligners as a long-term investment in their teens' future. A straight, healthy smile can have significant psychological benefits, influencing confidence and social interactions. As Winnipeg teens look forward to future careers, be it in the local industries or beyond, they and their parents consider the boost in self-esteem and the positive impact of a winning smile on their prospects. Know Some Important Things While Getting  The Clear Aligners? There is no doubt about the fact that the clear aligners make an increment in the overall aesthetics. They are in high demand, which is why people, mainly youngsters, prefer them.  1. Speed Might Get Impaired For Some Days Most people experience trouble pronouncing certain words when initiating their clear aligners journey. It's, therefore, quite normal to possess the lisp during the period of adjustment. The best way to get past it is to slow down when talking. It is the best way out. 2. People Won’t See The Device When you use a clear aligner, others can't gauge if or not an individual is wearing the clear aligner. It is the best way to keep yourself safe. People won’t be able to view the devices.  3. The Care Users Must Take Them Out For Meals Taking out the clear braces while surrounded by friends at the lunch counter is indeed the best idea. The care users need to look out for a bathroom or some other private area where they can easily remove the device and insert it after meals. The patients must avoid eating with the clear braces at all costs. 4. The Clear Braces Are Indeed More Popular  Many people wear clear braces globally. But it is indeed hard since it is almost impossible to see them. The metal braces are indeed more popular compared to what you think they are. Therefore, if you are looking anxious and are wondering about whether or not to wear the braces, do not worry, as hundreds of people use them worldwide.  5. The Patients Must Wash Their Meals  If you are thinking of using them, you must unquestionably wear them after every meal. 6. The Treatments Are Likely To Take A Longer Time Digital imaging makes it nearly impossible for dentists to make accurate projections on teeth, wearing clear braces for a particular amount of time. However, you can not hurry as this treatment methodology takes a substantial amount of time.  Conclusion In conclusion, the popularity of clear aligners among Winnipeg's youth can be attributed to aesthetic preference, functionality, technological integration, and social factors. Aligners align with the city's identity – innovative, youth-oriented, and community-driven. As Winnipeg continues to grow and embrace new technologies, clear aligners will likely remain a preferred choice for teen orthodontic care, supporting the next generation in achieving not just aligned teeth but also aligned goals for health and success. Read Also: Choosing The Best Dental Care In Gramercy Best Paying Jobs In Medical/Dental Instruments How Many Jobs Are Available In Medical/Dental Instruments?

READ MOREDetails
Health Issues

Men’s Health Issues: What are the Biggest Concerns in 2021?

If you are a man that loves taking care of their cars, gadgets, and hobbies more than you take care of yourself, you are not alone. According to leading medical professionals, the average man suffers from- Lack of awareness, information, and education on health issues Has unhealthy daily work habits that are long and arduous Questionable personal lifestyle tastes and preferences Doctors are also of the opinion that a man is more likely to smoke tobacco and drink alcohol. Additionally, they are far more prone to making dubious decisions and avoid the doctor as much as possible. This is why most men tend to stare at a serious health complication the first time. They keep ignoring the signs and symptoms for a very long time before they seek medical consultation. In this article, we are going to look at the top health concerns for men in 2021. Additionally, we will also shed light on some reasons why men avoid taking care of their health and seeing a medical professional. If you wish to know more, there are numerous great resources available, such as this article. List of 5 Major Health Concerns and Issues for Men in 2021 1. Respiratory Illnesses including Lung Cancer- An innocent cough that starts getting more common, frequent, and repetitive can be your body telling you to stop smoking and see a doctor. What starts as an innocent respiratory concern can quickly spiral into COPD, Lung Cancers, and Bronchitis. According to medical experts, everyone should try to give up smoking. People who have been smoking for more than a decade should get CT scans done once every six months. Smoking is bad for your health and affects your lungs in the worst manner possible. 2. Heart Diseases, Blockages, and Strokes- One of the major causes of heart illnesses in men is poor lifestyle choices. As men, we think that we are tough to live on fast food, drink every other night, and smoke a pack of cigarettes every day. All this can slowly start eating away at your heart health. If data is to believe, one in three adult American males suffers from some form of heart disease. Many mistake pains emanating from the chest as being because of gas build-up or stretched muscles and ligaments in the shoulder. If you are someone that has been asked by their cardiologist to take heart medications, you know that this is not the easiest thing to do. You need to keep taking the medicines throughout your life. Taking so many pills might be difficult especially as far as swallowing is concerned. You can take help from a medication swallowing gel that can help you take the prescribed medications as has been suggested by your doctor. 3. Mental Health Issues- Anxiety, Stresses, and Depression- According to studies, six million American males over the age of 18 suffer from mental health problems. Within this six million, a sizable section also develops suicidal thoughts. Being taboo, men are less likely than women to come up and take help for their mental health. They keep suppressing anxiety, stresses, and worries up until the point that it becomes so pent up that suicide starts looking like the only option. Most experts and help advocacy groups are running strong campaigns to help men with mental issues discuss and talk about it. 4. Development of Type 2 Diabetes- Most doctors agree that diabetes is a lifestyle illness. They say that it is the cumulative result of several factors. This includes- smoking, drinking, less sleep, overthinking, an unhealthy reliance on junk food, and so on. All these together can lead to rising blood sugar levels. Doctors say that rising sugar levels can cause damage to other organs of the body. For example, they can affect kidney functions, heart complications, lower sexual libido, etc. This is why maintaining blood sugar levels with regular monitoring, medicines, and insulin is recommended. 5. Sexual Diseases and Illnesses- If data is to be believed, men account for 76% of all HIV-AIDS cases in America. A gay man who has sex with other men is less likely to use contraceptives as compared to gay women. Additionally, men also have a higher rate of contracting STDs than women. In the last few years, reports also suggest that sexual illnesses like erectile dysfunction and low sperm count are affecting a lot of men. This is partly because of poor mental health and partly because of the fallout of a disease like Diabetes. There is a growing demand for male enhancement supplements in the industry. A lot of men have been able to overcome emotional and psychological issues after they have been able to increase the size of their penises. This non-surgical procedure such as the use of Proextender has also prevented dangers that are routinely associated with such surgeries. Why do most Men Avoid Taking Care of their Health and Seeing a Doctor? In this section, we will try to list down some of the major reasons why men avoid seeing a doctor- One of the major reasons men avoid going to the doctor is ‘fear’. They fear that if they check in with a doctor, they might hear some bad news or outcome. Women are better at hearing bad news and then taking constructive steps towards addressing it. A lot of doctors have also pointed to something known as the ‘superhero syndrome’. Men want to always think of themselves as being the strongest. Illnesses and diseases are often termed as weaknesses and no one wants to appear weak. Lastly, men do not like being vulnerable. When it comes to illnesses, they do not want to feel they need someone to take care of themselves, give them medicines and feed them throughout the day. Vulnerability is something that no man wants to feel. Then there are taboo topics like poor sexual health or mental health complications. Men do not want to exhibit weakness that is truly termed as being patriarchal. This prohibits them from talking about these issues and ultimately leads to poor effects. The Final Word A lot of doctors have gone on record to say that even when men come in for a diagnosis, they are likely to hide or withhold crucial pieces of information. They always want to give the impression that everything is alright and that they do not need any extra medical attention. All these faulty sentiments and feelings are responsible for illnesses breeding themselves in their body to dangerous levels. This leads to major crashes and life-threatening situations. In this article, we have tried to list down some of the major health issues men suffer from in 2021. If you would want us to elaborate on any of the points in the article, let us know in the comments section below. Read Also: Surprisingly Unknown Effects of Sleep Loss Dalhousie, a perfect place to unplug the anxiety of rat race of modern cities Are You Wondering About The Risk Factors For Depression?

READ MOREDetails