9 things you do every day that endangers your health

We've all done things that aren't good for our health. We do them sometimes because we are lazy, and sometimes because we don't know any better. Whatever the reason, it is critical to be aware of the things we do that endanger our health so that we can make changes. Here are nine things you probably do that are harmful to your health.



1. Failure to wash your hands on a regular basis

Washing your hands frequently, especially after coming into contact with high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, handrails, and countertops, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself from illness. Unfortunately, many people do not wash their hands as frequently or as thoroughly as they should.



2. Skimping on Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for good health, but it's something that many people forego in order to get more done. If you don't get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night, you're putting your health at risk for everything from obesity and diabetes to heart disease and depression. Make sleep a priority, and you'll reap the benefits in both physical and mental health.



3. You are not getting enough exercise.

Exercise is beneficial to one's overall health and well-being. It helps to strengthen your muscles and bones, reduces stress, and improves your mental health. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (such as walking or biking). If you want to lose weight or get in shape, you may need more than 150 minutes per week.



4. You consume an excessive amount of junk food.

Junk food is defined as any food high in calories but low in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Cookies, chips, candy bars, sodas, and ice cream are examples of junk food. Junk food is frequently high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Eating too much junk food can increase your risk of developing obesity-related conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. If you eat junk food on a regular basis, try to limit your intake and replace some of your meals with healthier options.



5. You don't floss on a regular basis.

Another simple and effective way to protect your health is to floss. It not only removes plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, but it also lowers your risk of gum disease. Gum disease has been linked to several serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Make it a habit to floss at least once a day!



6. Skipping breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but many people skip it because they don't have time or don't want to eat first thing in the morning. Skipping breakfast can increase your chances of overeating later in the day, cause energy slumps, and make it difficult to concentrate. If you don't have time for a leisurely breakfast, try a quick and easy option like an energy bar or a smoothie on the go. Simply eat something within an hour of waking up.



7. You don't drink enough water.

Our bodies require water to function properly. It aids in the regulation of our body temperature, the lubrication of our joints, and the removal of toxins from our bodies. Nonetheless, according to a CDC study, nearly one-quarter of all Americans do not drink any water at all during the course of a day. Carry a water bottle with you everywhere you go and make a conscious effort to drink 8 glasses of water per day to ensure you're getting enough water.



8. Antibiotic Dependence

Antibiotics are excellent for treating bacterial infections, but they have no effect on viral infections such as colds and flu. Not only that, but overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which means they may not work the next time you need them. Make sure to finish your antibiotic course, even if you start feeling better halfway through, and only use them as directed by a doctor.



9. Sitting Too Much

You're probably sitting too much if you have a sedentary job or spend a lot of time watching TV or working on the computer. Long periods of sitting can increase your risk of obesity, heart disease, cancer, and other chronic health problems. Get up and move around for at least 10 minutes every hour to counteract the effects of all that sitting. A brisk walk around the block or some jumping jacks in your living room will suffice!



We hope you found this article useful. Taking a few simple precautions to reduce your risk of illness can help you stay healthy and happy. Make sure to sign up for roHealth today to get health insurance that will keep you covered in case something happens. Thank you for your time!