These Habits are Aging You
By Sara Butler
Do you feel like you're aging too quickly? It seems as if just yesterday you were running around on the playground and then this morning you woke up with a backache. It happens. You cannot stop the aging process, but there are things you can do to slow it down -- and a few things you can do to speed it up. In fact, there are some everyday habits that may be prematurely aging you. Here are a few you should avoid.
Multitasking
At first glance, multitasking seems as if it's something to be proud of. Look how much you can do! But all you're really doing, in the end, is creating more stress for yourself. Stress can trigger the release of molecules called free radicals and these molecules damage the cells in your body and contribute to premature aging. So, instead of trying to do it all, think about taking on one thing at a time and not picking up something else until that task is finished.
You Don't Sleep Enough
There are some people in the world that pride themselves on how little sleep they can get and still function. But skimping on sleep is a surefire way to ensure that your body ages prematurely. Plus, lack of sleep has been directly correlated with a shorter lifespan, so you're literally driving yourself into an early grave by ignoring your body's need for a full night's sleep. You should get at least seven hours per night to stave off sleep deprivation, which can cause mental sluggishness, lack of energy, and even weight gain.
Sitting All Day
Most people have jobs that require them to sit for long periods day in and day out. While you may not be able to change the nature of your job, you can change how much you're actually sitting -- which is another thing that can prematurely age you.
Researchers have found that sitting for several hours at a time increases your risk of developing certain types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even kidney disease. You can counteract this with regular exercise but you also want to try to get up at least once every hour and move around a little to help keep your blood flowing and your body moving.
Take care of yourself and don't age yourself prematurely!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mission Viejo, Calif.