6 Things Incredibly Healthy People Never Do, Says Fitness Expert
Here's an important lesson about health: Being healthy is just as much about what you don't do as what you do. Beyond obvious things like smoking, drug use, etc., there are several common things the healthiest people always avoid. Cut these out from your life, and your health will seriously thrive. Read on to learn more about the six top things incredibly healthy people never do.
Obsessing about health
Yes, it's important to take care of your health, but micromanaging every single nutrient, taking dozens of supplements, or worrying about every possible disease is counterproductive. You still need to live life. Sure, healthy people get regular checkups, but they don't become consumed with it. Do the best you can and then let go.
"Attention to health is life's greatest hindrance," wrote Plato. Balance is key.
Related: The #1 Yoga Exercise Incredibly Fit People Do, Says Expert
Living a sedentary life
While exercising several times a week is important, what about the rest of your daily routine? The healthiest people move often, even if that's walking every day, playing sports, biking to work, or dancing a few nights a week. Getting in daily movement burns calories, helps you stay strong, builds a healthy heart, maintains your flexibility, and more.
Skimping on sleep
Around 70 million adults in the U.S. struggle with ongoing sleep issues, which harm their health. After all, sleep is when your body repairs itself, fights off infections, and keeps your mind sharp.
According to the National Sleep Foundation guidelines, healthy adults should get seven to nine hours of solid sleep every night. Individuals older than 65 should get seven to eight hours of snooze time on a nightly basis. To help adopt a good pre-bed routine, stop using electronics before sleep, and avoid caffeine and alcohol late in the day or evening.
Related: What Science Says About the Exercise Habits That Slow Aging
Eating too much (or little) junk food
We all know that eating too much junk food is a recipe for poor health—but never eating junk food? There's no need to be so extreme.
Yes, healthy people eat a balanced diet full of veggies, fruits, and healthy sources of protein and carbohydrates. But they don't feel guilty when they have a slice of cake or ice cream!
Unless your goal is to win Olympic gold, it's fine to occasionally have some delicious treats. After all, life is meant to be enjoyed.
Forgetting liquids
Next up on this list of the top things incredibly healthy people never do is not drinking enough liquids (or forgetting them altogether). Hydration is critical for your overall health and well-being, and even the smallest level of dehydration can impact your concentration, mood, energy, and more.
Drink plenty of water and the occasional coffee or tea (without tons of sugars and additives). The amount of liquid to drink depends on how much physical activity you're getting, the weather, and more, so drink enough so that your urine is very light yellow or even colorless.
Stressing too much
A healthy life isn't just about your muscles or fat; your mental and emotional health is incredibly important, too. Remember to laugh and smile every day. The healthiest people of all don't waste their energy on negativity, stress, or anger. When bad things happen, they move on quickly and focus on the best parts of life.
Things like gratitude or mindfulness practices can do wonders for your mental health. Also, keep friends who bring out the best in you and help you overcome tough times. After all, your personal relationships are the number one factor of happiness—science says so!
