Health-related mistakes we can correct
No one can claim that they’re perfect, at least when it comes to being healthy. All of us have made health mistakes either knowingly and unknowingly at some time in time. Of course, as with most things in life, it’s never too late to correct them. Every little step counts.
EXERCISE REGULARLY: It is universally agreed that exercising regularly can lead to sustained health benefits. Especially so, for those of us who work a sedentary job, requiring us to spend multiple hours sitting in front of a computer screen. Research has revealed that sitting for long periods of time without moving one’s muscles significantly increases one’s risk of heart disease and diabetes. For those of us who have never exercised before, we need to start small by exercising 20 minutes a week and gradually increase the pace. An active lifestyle all but guarantees good health.
UNHEALTHY DIET: Almost all of us are guilty of eating unhealthy food outside. But it’s time we stopped. We need to reverse poor eating habits by making conscious efforts to eating healthy. It is recommended to cut down on consumption of sugar and saturated fats (found in confectionery, butter and fatty meats), trans fats (found in cakes and deep fried foods) and salt. One needs to include fruits, vegetables, pulses, dairy, nuts and seeds in their daily diet. Eating grilled instead of fried food is another way of avoiding consumption of unhealthy food.
INCORRECT POSTURE: Mumbai has one of the largest working populations in the country, and so it comes as no surprise that a huge number of people are afflicted with bad posture. It is very important to pay attention to the way we sit, stand and walk. One needs to avoid slouching while sitting, hunching while standing and dragging their feet while walking. A good posture makes sure that one doesn’t suffer from poor balance backache and as they age. Regular exercise is necessary to improve one’s core stability and spine flexibility. It is unanimously agreed that yoga is an excellent tool for improving one’s posture.
BINGE DRINKING: We have all been in a situation where we decide to go all out after a long week at the office thinking it’s alright to drink a lot occasionally than a little every day. It has been found that binge drinking is as harmful as regular drinking because the detrimental effect on one’s liver is the same. Instead, it is recommended to drink only occasionally and in small quantities while following a healthy diet in order to maintain good health.
APPLYING SUNSCREEN: It is absolutely essential to use sunscreen when going outdoors in a city like Mumbai. Sunrays exposure may not prove to be immediately harmful but in the long run, one cannot help but notice the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E found in most moisturizers, help combat and reverse this while reducing the risk of skin damage. It also helps to hydrate the skin, which keeps it healthy.
