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Maintaining good health requires incorporating several different health-conscious practices into your lifestyle, but you may be overlooking some things. In particular, there are areas of our health that people tend to take for granted. This creates a situation in which an unexpected medical issue can arise from the neglect. By paying closer attention to these areas of your health, you can reduce your risks of related health problems in the future.
Don’t Minimize the Importance of Stress Relief
Although mental health is starting to gain more attention, most people take this aspect of human health for granted. Since heightened stress doesn’t result in a tangible injury or infection, people ignore their need to relieve stress. However, prolonged stress builds up over time and causes a variety of health conditions. Physically, it weakens the immune system and prevents the body from healing properly or efficiently. Stress also contributes to mental health issues, increasing the risks for depression, anxiety, and cognitive dysfunction. Relieving stress isn’t difficult, either. Simply find an activity that relaxes you, whether that’s fishing, reading, or meditating.
You’re Not Drinking Enough Water
Even if you think you drink too much water, the chances are good that you’re still not drinking enough. Our bodies are primarily comprised of water, but that moisture needs to be replenished consistently every day. When you become dehydrated, your bones and muscle lose strength, your organs don’t function as well as they should, and your skin ages prematurely. As a general rule, you should be drinking up to one ounce of water per pound of body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should be drinking 150 ounces of water each day.
Spend More Time on Your Oral Care Routine
As a general rule, you should brush your teeth a minimum of two times each day and floss once a day. In brushing, be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste. Instead of scrubbing with your toothbrush, lightly polish your teeth at a 45-degree angle. When you rinse, avoid using water. Instead, rinse with a fluoride mouthwash and avoid drinking anything for at least 30 minutes after brushing. You must also see your dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups. While visiting your dentist, you can discuss your interest in clip-on veneers and other ways to help you improve your smile. Your dentist can help you keep a healthy and bright smile throughout your life.
Get Better Sleep
When you sleep, your brain and body are busy maintaining your health. Throughout your body, muscle and tissue are being restored, healed, and strengthened. Meanwhile, your brain is busy processing your experiences of that day and helping to reduce the stress hormones in your body. This is also the time when other hormones are better regulated. If you’re not sleeping a full seven to eight hours every night, you’re interrupting these processes. You can get better sleep by stopping the consumption of caffeine at least six hours before bed and shutting off electronic devices one hour before bed. Instead, meditate, practice yoga, or take a warm bath. You can also sleep better by getting more comfortable bedding and making your sleeping quarters cooler.
Never Neglect Your Feet
Diabetics face more serious consequences from neglecting their feet due to the reduced blood circulation that is caused by higher blood glucose levels. They’re at a greater risk of nerve damage, skin ulcers, and infections. However, everyone should pay closer attention to the health of their feet. You should clip your toenails as needed to avoid ingrown nails and fungal infections. Additionally, wear good quality socks and shoes that are comfortable and sturdy. When engaged in walking or any physical activity, be sure to wear sneakers with a thick tread. If you step on glass or hard stones or experience any foot injury, you should clean and dress the wound as soon as possible. Any persistent wounds or the development of infection should prompt you to consult your doctor.
In addition to keeping a closer eye on these aspects of your health, you should see your doctor on a regular basis. Unless you suffer from a medical condition, you may only need to see a doctor once a year. However, missing these checkups can lead to the worsening of an undiagnosed condition. In almost every situation, early diagnosis leads to a more effective treatment, which means maintaining those regular health screenings can ensure your longevity and quality of life.