Regular Health Mistakes
Allof us make little health mistakes that cause damage to our bodies in
the long run - simply because we are unaware we are doing something
wrong. Here are some of the most common mistakes made by many of us.
Crossing our legs
Do you cross your legs at your knees when sitting?
Although we may believe that this is the lady-like elegant way to
sit, sitting this way cuts down circulation to your legs. If you don"t
want varicose veins to mar the beauty of your legs and compromise
your health, uncross your legs every time you realise you have one
knee on top of the other. The best way to sit is to simply place both
legs together on the floor, balancing your weight equally. If you feel
like changing position, instead of crossing your legs, simply move
both legs together to one side. As an alternative, you could also
consider crossing your legs loosely at the ankles. This is a
classically elegant way to sit, and is far better for your legs and
your health than sitting with your legs crossed at your knees.
Not changing our toothbrush
How often do you change your toothbrush? Most of us
wait until most of the bristles have either fallen off, or are in such
bad shape that we"d be embarrassed to pull out our brush in public.
However, since not many of us need to pull out our brush in public,
we carry on with our frayed one until we lose it. Replace your
toothbrush often. Damaged bristles can harm the enamel, and don"t
massage your gums well. If you find brushing your teeth a pain like I
do, but know you must do it, you might as well be doing it right.
Imagine going through the annoyance of brushing your teeth twice a
day only to find out that you"re damaging your enamel every time you
clean your teeth. Also, use a brush with soft bristles unless your
dentist has advised otherwise.
Eating out often
There are oils that are high in cholesterol, and oils
that cause little harm and are better for your heart. However, no
matter how light
the oil is, it is never a good idea to eat too much of it. Avoid
fried foods.Remember that in all probability your favorite Indian food
restaurant throws a huge, HUGE chunk of butter in a tiny bowl of dal.
Rita, who worked in the kitchen of a 5 star hotel, was shocked when
she saw the cook chop a 500gm butter slab in half, and throw half into
a Paneer Makhani dish. No wonder the customers left licking their
fingers. And no wonder they felt so stuffed and heavy afterwards.
Limit outdoor eating unless you know that you"re getting served light
and healthy food.
Skipping breakfast
Never, ever skip breakfast. Remember, when you wake up
in the morning it"s been around 10-12 hours since your last meal. Your
body needs food now, more than at any other time. Eat a heavy
breakfast. You will then be busy through the day, and the calories
will get expended quickly. If you are trying to diet, eat a light
dinner. Here are some more common health mistakes we make. Being
informed and making a few changes can help make us feel a whole lot
better.
High heels
High heels sure look great, but they're murder for your
back. This however doesn't mean you should steer clear of stilettos.
Wear them, but not when you know you will be walking around a lot. Wear
them when going out for lunch or dinner - when the only walking you
will be doing is to your car, to the table, and back. Avoid high heels
when you are going somewhere on foot. If you are constantly tempted to
wear your heels, take a good look at your flats. Is there something
about them you dislike? Invest in a new pair of beautiful flats or
shoes with a low heel. Buy something you love, that you will enjoy
wearing. If possible, get a matching bag. You will then enjoy your
flats as much as you do your heels.
Sleeping on a soft bed
You don't have to sleep on the floor be kind to your
back, but do make sure you have a firm mattress. Although a mattress
on springs is soft and lovely to sink into, it's bad for your back. If
you already have an old bed with springs, you don't need to invest in a
new one - simply get a thick wooden plank put over the springs, and
place the mattress on the plank. Similarly, if your mattress is old
and lumpy, throw it out and get a new one. Your neck and your back will
thank you. The same rule applies to sofas. If you will be spending
hours on a sofa, get a firm yet comfortable one. Sofas you completely
sink into are not the best idea.
Pillows
No matter how comfortable sleeping with ten cushions
is, have pity on your neck and resist. Sleep with one pillow, and make
sure it is not too thick. If your pillow gets lumpy, discard it and
go for a new one. Get a thin pillow if you sleep on your stomach, and
something a little thicker if you sleep on your back, to give your
neck adequate support.
Not exercising
So all of us know we should exercise more, but many of
us don't. This is a health mistake we consciously make! And why is
that? Simply because we refuse to admit the damage we are causing to
our bodies by not working out. A number of people only start working
out once they've experienced a warning signal. Don't wait for a heart
attack to strike before you decide to opt for a lifestyle change. Make
the change now. You don't need to train for the marathon to be in top
shape. Half an hour of brisk walking three to four times a week will
make a world of difference to your health. You could then increase
this to forty minutes, four times a week - and you're all set. If you
haven't exercised for a week, you're making a mistake.