It takes a lot of work to live a healthy lifestyle, and the changes you need to make don’t happen overnight.
The good news is, there are some simple health hacks you can start using right away. These are proven to help you eat healthier, exercise more and stress less.
1. Eat a Salad Before You Shop
Salads are a great way to get in your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. They’re packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help combat diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and cancer, among other health conditions.
But if you’re looking to take your salad game to the next level, consider adding some protein and fat. Poultry, fish, avocado, cheese, eggs or nuts are all good options for a filling and satisfying meal.
But be careful of toppings that add empty calories and sugar to your salad. Croutons, candied nuts/fruit and cured meats are all bad for you.
2. Eat a Small Snack
A small snack provides a boost of energy and may help stabilize blood sugar levels during the day. It can also help you avoid overeating at the next meal.
A healthy snack should provide nutrients and be low in fat, sugar or salt. For example, try a handful of nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts or pistachios) or a serving of fresh fruit.
Having snacks in the fridge or pantry can make it easier to eat healthier when you’re on the go. It’s also a good idea to portion your snacks so that they don’t add too many calories.
3. Eat More Fruit
You probably know that eating a diet high in fruit can help reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses. They are also high in essential vitamins and minerals, and they’re full of dietary fiber that helps you feel satisfied.
Fruit is also a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that fight signs of ageing and protect your eyes from damage.
The key is to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables so you get a good mix of nutrients, according to nutrition experts. The best way to do this is to eat with the seasons.
4. Take the Stairs
Climbing stairs is a great way to get a full body workout. This is because it works muscles from your legs, arms, and back.
It also strengthens your core, balance, and coordination.
Moreover, it can help lower your risk of heart disease and stroke!
Aside from improving your health, taking the stairs can also reduce your stress and improve your mood.
According to research, climbing stairs regularly can reduce your risk of premature death from heart disease, and it can lower your blood pressure. In fact, a recent study showed that walking up and down the stairs for at least 20 minutes every day can cut your risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 50%!
5. Drink Lemon Water
Drinking lots of water is one of the most important things you can do to live a healthier lifestyle. It keeps your body hydrated and flushes out toxins.
You can add lemon to your water for a few extra benefits, too.
The vitamin C and flavonoid content of lemons can help reduce oxidative stress, which is a leading cause of inflammation.
This is good news for your health, because it protects you against chronic diseases and other ailments.
Besides its hydrating effects, lemon water also has a number of other health benefits, including improving skin quality and preventing kidney stones. It contains citrate, which is a mineral your body needs to prevent calcium oxalate from forming kidney stones.
