6 Habits of Fit and Healthy People

Typically, habits are viewed as bad or negative; interestingly enough, Webster’s Dictionary defines the word habit as “a thing done often and hence easily, a usual way of doing, an addiction.” Adopting good and healthy habits are easier than you may think; simply follow the example of fit & healthy people. By developing and including their top 6 ‘good to have’ habits you will be amazed at the significant impact on your day-to-day life.

1. Eat Breakfast
According to WebMD the number 1 healthy habit is eating breakfast every morning. Breakfast eaters tend to consume more essential vitamins and minerals and less fat and cholesterol than non breakfast eaters. Studies also show that breakfast eaters report feeling happier, healthier, less stressed and mentally & physically better. Breakfast should be consumed within an hour of waking up and should consist of all 3 macro nutrients; fat, protein & carbohydrates.

2. Get Sufficient Sleep
Research is now suggesting the appropriate amount of sleep is unique to each individual and can vary from as little as 7 hours to as much as 9 hours per night. If you need an alarm clock to wake up chances are you are not getting enough sleep. Experts also recommend that if you are not waking refreshed and alert after sleeping consistently for 7.5 hours per night you may want to visit a sleep specialist.

3. Exercise on Most Days
CDC reports that 60% of Americans do not exercise regularly. The health benefits of exercise are huge. Exercise not only helps prevent obesity, diabetes, hypertension, helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol; but did you know that exercise also helps you sleep better, gives you more energy, lowers your stress, puts you in a good mood and even helps fight colds. It is important to include strength training, cardiovascular training and flexibility training in your fitness routine.

4. Drink Water
Be aware that feeling thirsty is not a good indicator of the need for hydration, by the time you are actually thirsty you have already lost over 1% of your total water. Did you know that 66% of our bodies consist of water, it is contained in all of our organs and our brains are 75% water? When exercising water actually gives you energy and most experts recommend drinking at least a cup for every 15 minutes of regular exercise!

5. Eat Fruits & Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables not only contain a lot of essential vitamins and minerals but the high fiber content also helps to control blood sugar levels and cholesterol. Also the antioxidants are great for heart health. Be sure to vary the fruit and veggies that you consume each day, aim for 5 to 9 serving and a variety of colors.

6. Be Positive
It seems positive, optimistic people live happier & healthier lives, are able to affectively cope with stressful situations and participate in more physical activity than negative or pessimistic people. According to the Mayo Clinic health benefits of positive thinking people include:
• Increased life span
• Lower rates of depression
• Lower levels of distress
• Greater resistance to the common cold
• Better psychological and physical well-being
• Reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease
• Better coping skills during hardships and times of stress

Be Fit, Be Healthy, Be Happy! ~ Tanya

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