It’s a no-brainer, developing healthy habits leads to a healthy life, right? But, healthy habits are not necessarily the easiest thing in the world to develop. We all struggle with making healthy diet choices, getting enough exercise, sleeping enough, and limiting indulgences, like alcohol. Plain and simple, it is hard!
Here are 10 healthy habits anyone can develop to help live a healthier life:
Getting Your Zzzz’s
As adults, many of us suffer from sleep deprivation, simply because there are not enough hours in a day. However, in order for your body to perform at it’s peak ability you need to let your body rest, this means getting enough sleep.
No Skipping Meals
Well, I am trying to be healthier and eat better…I will just skip breakfast to save calories…This is a great way to harm your metabolism and may even cause your body to begin using muscle for fuel. Instead of skipping meals, opt for eating small meals 3-5 times a day packed with protein, veggies, and fruits.
Avoid Refined Carbs
Always go for whole grains. Make easy switches like choosing brown rice over white rice, whole grain pasta over pasta made with white/bleached flour, whole grain breads over white bread, etc. These swaps are easy, and whole grains generally contain more fiber which will make your digestive track happy.
Choose Lean Protein
Instead of ordering that beefy burger go for the turkey burger instead. Always go for lean proteins like poultry and fish. This will save you some major calories and can decrease your fat intake by up to 99%, woah!
H2O
Do your bod a favor and make sure you consuming at least 8 glasses daily. 75% of our muscles are made of water, keep hydrated to be the best version of yourself.
Keep it to One
Alcohol can pack in a ton of “empty” calories, meaning that the calories we are taking in from alcohol really are not helping our bodies at all. Keep it to one – one beer, one glass of wine, or one cocktail.
30 Minutes a Day
Always aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. This can be going to the gym or just taking a walk with friends and family. Get your body moving. There are 24 hours in a day, take just 30 minutes to do your body some good.
Stretch it out
After those 30 minutes of physical activity, take some time to stretch. Important note, always warm up your muscles before stretching. Learn more about stretching.
Sunscreen
Always protect your skin anytime you are exposed to the sun. Sun damage can cause premature aging and even cancer. Even if it may not appear to be sunny out, the sun’s rays still pass through the clouds and can cause damage to your skin. Make it part of your morning routine to always apply sunblock.
Make Physical Activity Fun
Getting your 30 minutes of physical activity every day does not have to feel like a chore. Make it fun! Find a hobby which requires you to be active. Try running, cycling, swimming, etc. There are tons of activities out there to get you moving, try some out until you find something you really love doing.