Tips

9 Daily Habits We’re Getting Wrong

The morning coffee ritual is a mistake. Drinking coffee first thing in the morning can decrease your body's natural cortisol production, leading to a lack of focus and an irritable state.

Administrator

21 July, 2024

1. Drinking Water After a Meal

It is commonly advised to avoid drinking water during meals as it can cause a feeling of fullness and dilute the digestive process. However, according to nutrition expert Ellie Krieger, as quoted in the Washington Post, drinking water during a meal can aid digestion, especially during the chewing and swallowing process. It helps to soften the food and ease its journey down the esophagus. Just remember to sip slowly.

Drinking water during a meal can aid digestion.

On the other hand, drinking a large glass of water before a meal will make you feel full and reduce your appetite, unless you’re intentionally trying to eat less.

2. Drinking Cold Water

While many people enjoy a cold glass of water, especially during the summer, a study suggests that drinking cold water can exacerbate digestive issues, such as esophageal spasms. Although it won’t make you sick, cold water can cause your blood vessels to constrict.

Drinking cold water can exacerbate digestive issues.

3. Washing Your Face with Hot Water

It is common to wash your face in the shower with warm water. However, this is a mistake. Warm water causes your skin to produce more oil, which can lead to dryness. Instead, wash your face with lukewarm or even cold water before or after showering. It’s beneficial for your skin and can help reduce eye puffiness when you wake up.

Washing your face with hot water can dry out your skin.

4. Morning or Evening Showers

The age-old question of whether it’s better to shower in the morning or at night ultimately comes down to personal preference.

A morning shower can help you feel more alert. However, to maximize the benefits, opt for a cold or slightly warm shower. The ideal temperature is 19 degrees Celsius.

Evening showers, on the other hand, can help you relax before bed and ensure a clean environment. In this case, a warm shower at around 32 degrees Celsius is ideal. For those who struggle with insomnia, try showering 90 minutes before bedtime.

5. Drinking Coffee First Thing in the Morning

The time of day you drink coffee can impact your caffeine tolerance. The stress hormone cortisol is responsible for keeping you alert, and it has three peak production times during the day, one of which is when you first wake up. If you drink coffee during this peak time, your body will adapt to producing less cortisol. As a result, you may experience decreased focus and increased irritability. It’s best to wait until after 10 am to enjoy your cup of coffee.

Drinking coffee first thing in the morning can affect your caffeine tolerance.

6. Stirring Sugar in a Circular Motion

Most people stir their sugar in a circular motion, but the correct way is to stir it up and down in a straight line. This method reduces splashing and dissolves the sugar faster.

Stir sugar in a straight line for better results.

7. Peeling a Banana

Many people eat bananas from the stem down, but the correct way is to start from the bottom. Peeling a banana from the stem end doesn’t remove the strings inside.

Take a cue from monkeys, who always start peeling from the bottom. They know the best way to enjoy this fruit!

Peel a banana from the bottom for a cleaner, string-free experience.

8. Using Non-Stick Pans at High Temperatures

Non-stick pans can be harmful to your health if used incorrectly. Heating them above 260 degrees Celsius can release toxic chemicals. This doesn’t mean you should stop using them altogether, but rather, choose alternative pans for certain tasks. When frying meat, opt for cast iron or stone pans (provided the coating is still intact).

Be cautious when using non-stick pans at high temperatures.

9. Eating a Burger Horizontally

Most of us hold a large burger with both hands and take a big bite, only to have the toppings slide out and create a mess.

Eat your burger in a circular motion to avoid a mess.

Japanese researchers from the fields of mechanics, engineering, and dentistry spent four months studying the best way to eat a burger. They found that holding the burger as shown in the image on the right and eating it in a circular motion is the ideal technique. Also, be careful not to squeeze the burger too tightly, or the toppings will spill out.

Bảo Nhiên (Translated from Brightside)

Frequently asked questions

Our daily habits can have a significant impact on our health, productivity, and overall well-being. By correcting bad habits and adopting healthier ones, we can improve our quality of life and prevent potential health issues in the long run.

Drinking a glass of water in the morning helps hydrate your body after a long night of sleep, flushes out toxins, kickstarts your metabolism, and may even aid in weight loss by making you feel fuller.

Starting your day by checking your phone can increase stress and anxiety levels. It exposes you to an influx of information and potential negative news, causing information overload. Taking a break from technology in the morning allows you to focus on yourself and set a positive tone for the day.

Making your bed in the morning gives you a sense of accomplishment early in the day, encouraging you to maintain a tidy environment and fostering better sleep habits. A made bed also creates a more inviting space when you’re ready to turn in for the night.

When sitting, ensure your feet are flat on the floor and your back is straight. Adjust your chair so that your thighs are parallel to the ground and your arms are at a 90-degree angle to the desk. This helps prevent back pain and improves your overall posture.

Exercising in the morning has numerous benefits. It boosts your metabolism, improves your mood by releasing endorphins, and helps you develop a consistent routine. Morning workouts also tend to be less crowded, allowing you to have a more peaceful and efficient exercise session.

Taking short breaks throughout your workday helps prevent burnout and improves focus. Stepping away from your task for a few minutes allows your brain to rest and recharge, leading to increased productivity and creativity when you return to work.

Establish a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Limit screen time before bed, as the blue light emitted by electronic devices can disrupt your sleep. Engaging in relaxing activities, such as reading or meditation, can also help prepare your mind and body for a restful night’s sleep.

Journaling allows you to reflect on your day, organize your thoughts, and express your emotions. It can help reduce stress, improve problem-solving abilities, and provide a sense of perspective. Journaling also serves as a personal record of your experiences and growth over time.