How many of us are familiar with the fact that a few adjustments, alterations, and substitutions to our lifestyles can help put us on the fast-track to health? In theory, everyone is aware that eating a balanced, nutritious meal which contains every food group can help prevent various chronic illnesses. And while we can list the many benefits of healthy living, what really constitutes a few alterations for a lifestyle change?
Here are five tips and tricks even your general practitioner will approve of:
Drink Plenty Of Water: Did you know that every single cellular function in the body is linked to our fluid levels? Blood and cancer-fighting immune systems need water to flush out toxins from cells and to transport vital minerals, nutrients, and amino acids into them. Healthy cells function optimally by absorbing nutrients from water, so even two per cent body dehydration can cause energy levels to drop.
Get Plenty Of Sleep: While there’s no specific number that constitutes a normal amount of sleep, most adults require anywhere between seven and nine hours of shut eye a night. Sleep is the time the body restores, heals, and strengthens itself both physically and mentally, contributing to a healthy lifestyle.
Eat A Balanced And Nutritious Diet: The principle is eating a general amount of calories in tandem with your activity levels. If you eat or drink more than your body will burn, you’ll gain weight. If you eat and drink too little, you'll lose weight. On an average, men need 2,500 calories a day while women need 2,000. Ensure that the foods you eat contain a healthy dose of protein, fats, carbohydrates and fibre. This will help you maintain a healthy body weight if you balance your daily routine with enough physical activity, or functional exercises to keep your muscles engaged. Walking is a great way to stay healthy and active, without adding undue strain to your muscles.
Ensure Adequate Sun Protection: People used to associate a deep tan with good health, but it’s actually a sign of serious skin damage. The rising numbers of skin cancer cases in the UK—especially in the young—show the price that can be paid. Using tanning beds further increases this risk. People most at risk include those with fair skin (especially people with blonde or red hair with freckles) and those who have been sunburnt in the past (especially with blisters, and even if this happened many years previously). If you have more than ten moles, your risk increases as does using sun beds – or if there is a history of skin cancer in your family.
Relax: The fast-paced and busy lifestyles most of us tend to lead comes with the added disadvantage of undue stress. And while normal amounts of stress is natural and expected, chronic stress, on the flip side, is not only bad for your health, but can be counterproductive and can prevent you from relaxing even when you do manage to find some solace. To combat this, it’s recommended you practice some breathing exercises, calming techniques, or even indulge in a hobby like arts and crafts, knitting, or reading. Make time for yourself. It is vital to a healthy existence.