Everyone has bad habits. Some might be harmless, but others can wreak havoc on your health and well-being. In order to make room for the new and improved you, you need to kick some of these bad habits to the curb. Here are five to break so you can look and feel better than ever.
Everyone has bad habits. Some might be harmless, but others can wreak havoc on your health and well-being. In order to make room for the new and improved you, you need to kick some of these bad habits to the curb. Here are five to break so you can look and feel better than ever.
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1. SKIPPING BREAKFAST
Breakfast has always been hailed as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. Skipping the first meal of the day can do serious damage to your metabolism, energy and even blood sugar levels. When you munch on a slice of toast or tuck into a bowl of cereal, it helps to kick- start your digestion and your metabolism, as well as regulate the blood sugar levels in your body.
According to research published in the International Journal of Obesity, skipping breakfast may cause your metabolism to slow down, resulting in weight gain and sluggishness. Also, when you miss out on your morning meal, you’ll be more likely to overeat later in the day. If you can’t find time to prep brekkie, try to do so the night before so you can grab it before heading out to work.
2. USING EXPIRED MAKEUP
It’s hard to throw out your favourite eyeliner or foundation, especially after you’ve shelled out major moolah for it. However, it is extremely important to abide by makeup expiration dates. Aside from a reduced efficacy of active ingredients over time, molecules in cosmetics can also break down into other potentially harmful substances when their shelf life runs out. This can cause skin irritations and breakouts. As a rule of thumb, consider replacing your mascara every three months, eyeliners and eyeshadow every six to 12 months, and lipsticks every year.
3. BITING YOUR NAILS
This seemingly innocuous habit does far more damage than just ruining freshly painted nails. For starters, biting your nails increases the likelihood of contracting diseases. According to a study from the University of Colorado, we carry about 3,200 bacteria from 150 diff erent strains on our hands. Just think about all the germs entering your system when you place your unwashed hands into your mouth as you bite and chew at your nails. Break this habit by applying a varnish that leaves a bitter taste on the nails so you won’t have a go at them.
4. EATING LUNCH AT YOUR DESK
A study by Herbalife found that 29 per cent of local professionals ate lunch at their desk up to five times a week. This percentage was almost double the Asia Pacific average of 15 per cent. When you lunch at your desk, you probably won’t move around much. Sitting for prolonged periods of time is neither good for your blood circulation nor your eyes.
Also, munching while working might cause you to eat more than you should. Distracted eating means you don’t notice when you’re full. If you must have a quick lunch at your desk, try to squeeze in a short walk around your office building to sneak in some exercise and take a breather before you start work again.
5. NOT GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP
Sleep is certainly not for the weak. According to the Health Promotion Board, sleep deprivation results in a loss of concentration, slow response time and risky decision making. A lack of sleep can also impact your emotional well-being and lead to irritability and depression. Try to get at least six to eight hours every night. If you find it hard to fall asleep, give yourself some time to wind down before heading to bed. Engage in activities that will help calm your senses, like taking a bubble bath or listening to soothing music.
