Some of our bad eating habits are either acquired from childhood or done out of ignorance. And sometimes you just can’t say no to that yummy piece of chocolate fudge cake or packet of chips. Whatever the case, there are certain eating habits that could lead you to an early grave if continued. Stopping altogether might be the best idea but it is not easy. Once in a while you will fall off the bandwagon but you have to jump right back and continue.
Start with one day at a time and before you know it, you will form a habit. Here are 10 eating habits you need to give up asap.
Not drinking enough water
Our body constitutes 60% water and the importance of drinking water cannot be stressed enough. Staying hydrated keeps your memory sharp, your muscles and joints work better, your body cools down when it is hot, helps your body get rid of toxins via your kidneys and so on. Daily recommended number of glasses of water for men is 13 and 9 for women. As you up your intake, monitor the color of your urine. The yellow it is the more water you need to drink.
Skipping breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because of the nutritional replenishment it gives the body. The reason many skip breakfast is due to lack of time in the morning and because they are not hungry. Regardless, it is important to have a hearty breakfast which will give you energy throughout the day and lessen your cravings.
Late night eating
Many can relate to this habit especially if you sleep late. Sleeping hungry may not be a good idea but so eating before hitting the sack. When your body is in a rested state, it requires no new energy and will therefore not use up the food. This will be stored as fat. Not a good idea especially if you’re trying to lose weight.
Eating too much or little
Due to cravings, wrong information and our busy lifestyle, knowledge of your daily food intake is crucial. Find out what your basal metabolic rate is to help determine your caloric rate. Eating more or less will cause fluctuation in your weight, muscle build and this could lead to health problems.
Eating wrong foods
Most of us struggle with eating sugary, salty and oily foods and find it hard to eat anything outside that. These have nutritional content and are likely to cause medical problems such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, high blood pressure etc. if you must indulge, balance it out by increasing your vegetable, fruit and water intake.
Adding salt
A common and bad habit at that, some salt addicts are known to add salt even without tasting the food first. Too much sodium causes your body to retain water which can put strain on your heart and blood vessels. Refrain from adding and instead opt for natural herbs that can give a similar salty taste.