In a world full of diet pills, fad diets, and the constant bombardment of damaging media, it can be difficult to figure out what exactly is actually healthy for us. Doctors and scientists are constantly redefining what is healthy and unhealthy. To further complicate matters, information from different sources tend to contradict each other. One doctor might say carbs are healthy and nourishing, while another doctor insists they be avoided at all cost. Within all these mixed messages, it can be hard to find what the actual truth is. However, there are certain things that are undoubtedly good for your body. Here are seven things that will always be healthy.
1. Exercising
Exercise trends may come and go, but the facts remain. Moving your body and getting your heart pumping just a little everyday can add a multitude of benefits to your health. Exercising helps boost confident, makes you feel more energized, and helps combat certain diseases such as heart disease. At least twenty to thirty minutes of physical activity everyday can help you feel better. The trick is to find an exercise that you find enjoyable. Running, biking, yoga, dancing, spinning, walking your dog—anything you enjoy that gets your body moving.
2. Fruits and Vegetables
Especially green vegetables. While other types of foods are constantly relabeled as healthy or unhealthy, fruits and vegetables have always had a constant label. Fruits are great sources of essential vitamins and contain natural sugars that help combat the cravings for processed sweets (although a little candy and ice cream won’t hurt you). Vegetables contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that do things from helping fight disease to promoting clear skin. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into all your meals to reap their benefits.
3. Drinking Water
Just like the ocean, our bodies are composed of over seventy percent water. Water is a necessary ingredient in every single process our bodies go through. Staying hydrated is important for maintaining basic bodily functions. Drinking water also promotes clear skin, controls appetite, and decreases food cravings throughout the day. Drinking water throughout the day and especially after exercise is key to staying hydrated and happy.
4. Being Well-Rested
Although the exact amount of sleep a person should get is always being reconsidered, you know your body and how much sleep makes you feel the most refreshed. Getting plenty of sleep gives you energy and helps keep you focused throughout the day. A good night’s sleep also makes it so you’re less tired throughout the day which allows you to get more done and be more productive.
5. Washing Your Hands
Basic hygiene is a universal health technique. Washing your hands after you use the bathroom avoids the risk of you spreading disease to other people as well as catching certain diseases.
6. Me Time
Many young women can get so caught up in college life that they forget to take a step back and take care of themselves. They are so concerned with other people’s needs that they rarely take time to take care of themselves. Taking time for yourself every single day is vital for mental health and well-being. Try to schedule at least an hour of “me time” everyday doing something relaxing that you love: taking a bubble bath, reading a book, watching your favorite show, whatever. Give yourself time to unwind by yourself.
7. Laughing
They say that laughter is the best medicine. Genuine laughing every single day can do wonders for your health. It decreases stress hormones, increases endorphins that make you feel good, and even improves the functions of blood vessels to combat heart disease. More importantly, laughing often and surrounding yourself with people who make you laugh makes life more fun and bearable. It’s important not to take everything so seriously and to find the beauty and fun side of every situation.