Healthwatch by Shyft

Habits

Wellness

We all have habits that we wish we could break. Whether it's smoking, excessive drinking, overeating, or not getting enough exercise, harmful health habits can be difficult to break. These habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. But breaking these patterns and addictions is essential for our overall health and well-being. Harmful health habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. These habits are not only difficult to break, but they can also be destructive to our physical and mental health. It is essential to understand the psychology behind these habits and the factors that contribute to their development. One factor that can contribute to the development of harmful health habits is stress. When we experience stress, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone that can increase our cravings for high-fat, high-sugar foods. This is because cortisol triggers the release of glucose, providing our bodies with a quick source of energy. This can lead to overeating and the development of unhealthy eating habits. Another factor that can contribute to the development of harmful health habits is social influence. We are often influenced by the behaviour of those around us, and this can include unhealthy habits such as smoking or excessive drinking. Peer pressure can be a powerful force, and it can be challenging to resist the influence of those around us, especially when we are in social situations. Finally, the way we think about ourselves can also contribute to the development of harmful health habits. Low self-esteem, negative self-talk, and a lack of self-care can all contribute to the development of unhealthy habits. When we do not value ourselves or our health, we may engage in behaviours that are harmful to our bodies and minds. Understanding these factors can help us to identify the root causes of our harmful health habits and take steps to break them. By reducing stress, surrounding ourselves with positive influences, and practising self-care, we can create a healthier, happier lifestyle. Breaking harmful health habits is not easy, but it is possible with the right strategies and support. In this article, we'll explore the psychology behind harmful health habits, the physical and mental health consequences of these habits, and offer tips and strategies for breaking them. Understanding the Psychology of Harmful Health Habits Harmful health habits often begin as coping mechanisms for stress or emotional pain. For example, smoking may have initially been a way to cope with stress or anxiety, while overeating may have been a way to deal with emotional pain. These behaviours become habits when they are repeatedly reinforced, either through the release of dopamine in the brain or the relief of stress or emotional pain. Over time, these habits become deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that are difficult to break. The brain has rewired itself to associate these behaviours with pleasure or relief, making it hard to resist them even when we know they are harmful. Physical and Mental Health Consequences of Harmful Health Habits Harmful health habits can have serious consequences for our physical and mental health. Smoking, for example, is a leading cause of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Overeating can lead to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Excessive drinking can damage the liver and lead to addiction, among other health problems. These habits can also harm our mental health. They can increase anxiety and depression, lower self-esteem, and reduce our overall quality of life. Breaking Harmful Health Habits Breaking harmful health habits can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some tips and strategies that can help: Set a goal: Start by setting a clear goal for yourself. This goal should be specific, measurable, and achievable. For example, if you want to quit smoking, set a goal to be smoke-free for one week. Identify triggers: Identify the situations, people, or emotions that trigger your harmful health habits. This will help you anticipate and avoid these triggers. Create new habits: Replace your harmful health habits with new, healthier habits. For example, if you tend to overeat when you're stressed, try going for a walk or practising yoga instead. Seek support: Breaking harmful health habits is easier when you have support. Seek the help of friends, family, or a support group. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential when breaking harmful health habits. Practice self-care by getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. Get professional help: If you're struggling to break harmful health habits, consider seeking the help of a healthcare professional or therapist. Conclusion In conclusion, harmful health habits can be challenging to break, but it is possible with the right strategies and support. By understanding the psychology behind these habits, recognizing their physical and mental health consequences, and taking steps to break them, you can create a healthier, happier life for yourself. Remember, breaking harmful health habits takes time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it.

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Habits

Developing healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and practicing stress management, can improve overall wellness and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Breaking patterns and addictions- understanding harmful health habits

Breaking patterns and addictions- understanding harmful health habits

We all have habits that we wish we could break. Whether it's smoking, excessive drinking, overeating, or not getting enough exercise, harmful health habits can be difficult to break. These habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. But breaking these patterns and addictions is essential for our overall health and well-being. Harmful health habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. These habits…

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5 minutes

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19 Aug 2023

Featured

How to form sustainable healthy habits: Ways backed by psychology

How to form sustainable healthy habits: Ways backed by psychology

Many of us struggle with making healthy habits stick and often find ourselves falling back into old habits. In this blog post, we'll be discussing five tips for forming sustainable healthy habits that you can incorporate into your daily routine. We'll be sharing some psychological facts to back up our advice and keep you motivated along the way. Whether you're looking to start exercising regularly, eating healthier, or simply improving your overall well-being, these tips will help you on your…

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4 minutes

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05 Aug 2023

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6 best habit formation books to read in 2023

6 best habit formation books to read in 2023

Are you struggling to form healthy habits that stick? You're not alone. Many of us have experienced the frustration of trying to form healthy habits, only to give up after a few days or weeks. Whether it's exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, or managing stress, forming new habits can be challenging. But don't give up hope - there are many resources available to help you on your journey to better health and well-being. One of the best resources for…

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4 minutes

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28 Jul 2023

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Making and breaking: Habits

Making and breaking: Habits

Habits are a fundamental part of our lives. They dictate our daily routines, shape our behaviour, and ultimately determine our long-term outcomes. Whether we're looking to adopt new healthy habits or break old bad ones, understanding the science of habit formation is key. In this blog post, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making and breaking old habits. Making New Habits The first step in making new habits is to identify the specific behaviour you want to adopt.…

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4 minutes

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23 Jul 2023

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10 Habits to quit right now

10 Habits to quit right now

We all have habits, both good and bad, that shape our lives. While cultivating positive habits can be life-changing, it is equally important to recognize and eliminate harmful habits that hold us back. In this article, we will discuss ten habits that you should quit right now to improve your health and well-being. Binge-Watching Binge-watching is a popular pastime, but it can have serious consequences on your health. Sitting for prolonged periods can lead to weight gain, back pain, and…

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3 minutes

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23 Jul 2023

Discover the 3 Rs of Habit Change

Discover the 3 Rs of Habit Change

The Three Rs of Habit Change: How to Break Bad Habits and Form Good Ones Habits are a fundamental part of human behavior. From the way we brush our teeth to the route we take to work, our lives are full of repeated actions that have become automatic over time. But while habits can simplify our lives and free up mental energy, they can also have negative consequences. Bad habits like smoking, overeating, and procrastination can have serious impacts on…

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5 minutes

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15 Jul 2023

Featured

The Top 6 Simple Habits for a Thriving Gut

The Top 6 Simple Habits for a Thriving Gut

Your gut is the silent hero of your health, silently working behind the scenes to keep you feeling your best. The key to a healthy body lies within the depths of your gut, where a delicate balance of bacteria determines your overall well-being. But have you wondered how your gut will do it all without your support? Gut health is one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of overall health. In this blog, let’s explore the various habits…

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4 minutes

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11 Apr 2023

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Motivating your loved ones: change their habits

Motivating your loved ones: change their habits

Motivating a loved one to change their habits can be a tricky and sensitive matter. Whether it's quitting smoking, eating healthier, or exercising more, changing habits is not an easy feat. As someone who cares about them, you may want to encourage and support them in making these changes. However, you may also find yourself struggling to motivate them, especially if they are resistant to change. The good news is that with the right approach and mindset, you can help…

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4 minutes

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07 Apr 2023

Revamping Your Eating Habits: Proven Scientific Strategies for Lasting Change

Revamping Your Eating Habits: Proven Scientific Strategies for Lasting Change

Changing food habits can be a difficult task. We all have our favourite foods and eating patterns that are ingrained in our routines. However, with the rise of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, it's essential to start thinking about our eating habits and making changes for the better. The good news is that changing food habits is not impossible, and with the right approach, you can make healthy eating a habit. In this article, we will…

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4 minutes

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06 Apr 2023

The Gut Health-Disrupting Side Effects of Antibiotics You Need to Know

The Gut Health-Disrupting Side Effects of Antibiotics You Need to Know

Antibiotics: the life-saving wonder drugs that can also wreak havoc on your gut health. Antibiotics are one of the most revolutionary discoveries of modern medicine. They have saved countless lives by fighting off deadly bacterial infections. However, despite their life-saving abilities, antibiotics can have some unintended consequences on our gut health. The gut microbiome is a vast collection of microorganisms that reside in our digestive system, consisting of trillions of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms. These microorganisms play a…

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3 minutes

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06 Apr 2023

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Understanding psychology of habit formation: Breaking Bad Habits

Understanding psychology of habit formation: Breaking Bad Habits

Habit formation is one of the most important aspects of our daily lives. It is well-known that humans are creatures of habit, and forming good habits can help us achieve our goals and lead healthy lifestyles. In this blog, we will delve into the science behind habit formation and how it can be used to improve our lives. The psychology of habit formation Habits are actions that we perform without conscious thought. They are formed through context-dependent repetition, where behaviour…

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5 minutes

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05 Apr 2023

Oral Care

Good oral hygiene is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, as well as overall health. Brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting the dentist for regular check-ups, can help prevent dental problems and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

The Hullabaloo around good Oral Hygiene

The Hullabaloo around good Oral Hygiene

They say that a smile is the best accessory one can wear. But what happens when your pearly whites aren't so pearly anymore? Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential not only for your dental health but also for your overall well-being. A healthy mouth can help you prevent tooth decay, gum diseases, and bad breath. In this blog, we'll discuss tips to help you maintain good oral hygiene. Tips for good oral hygiene There are a lot of things that…

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2 minutes

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15 Jul 2023

Editor’s pick

The connection between PCOS and Oral Care

The connection between PCOS and Oral Care

If you have PCOS, you may have already encountered a few issues with your oral hygiene. While no direct studies point toward the direct connection between PCOS and dental problems, there are personal observations on how PCOS may cause rancid breath or more severe dental issues also. Let’s deep dive to understand this better — What causes dental problems in people with PCOS? Insulin Resistance Insulin resistance is one of the most common symptoms of PCOS, starting in the mouth.…

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3 minutes

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07 Apr 2023

Featured articles on Habits

Check out our featured articles for a clear understanding of the latest nutrition trends and information. Empowering you to make informed choices that positively impact your health.

Discover the 3 Rs of Habit Change

5 minutes

15 Jul 2023

Discover the 3 Rs of Habit Change

The Three Rs of Habit Change: How to Break Bad Habits and Form Good Ones Habits are a fundamental part of human behavior. From the way we brush our teeth to the route we take to work, our lives are full of repeated actions that have become automatic over time. But while habits can simplify our lives and free up mental energy, they can also have negative consequences. Bad habits like smoking, overeating, and procrastination can have serious impacts on… Read more

Featured

Discover the 3 Rs of Habit Change

Discover the 3 Rs of Habit Change

The Three Rs of Habit Change: How to Break Bad Habits and Form Good Ones Habits are a fundamental part of human behavior. From the way we brush our teeth to the route we take to work, our lives are full of repeated actions that have become automatic over time. But while habits can simplify our lives and free up mental energy, they can also have negative consequences. Bad habits like smoking, overeating, and procrastination can have serious impacts on…

book

5 minutes

|

calendar

15 Jul 2023

Featured

Breaking patterns and addictions- understanding harmful health habits

We all have habits that we wish we could break. Whether it's smoking, excessive drinking, overeating, or not getting enough exercise, harmful health habits can be difficult to break. These habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. But breaking these patterns and addictions is essential for our overall health and well-being. Harmful health habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. These habits… Read more

Featured

Breaking patterns and addictions- understanding harmful health habits

Breaking patterns and addictions- understanding harmful health habits

We all have habits that we wish we could break. Whether it's smoking, excessive drinking, overeating, or not getting enough exercise, harmful health habits can be difficult to break. These habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. But breaking these patterns and addictions is essential for our overall health and well-being. Harmful health habits are often deeply ingrained patterns of behaviour that have developed over years, if not decades. These habits…

book

5 minutes

|

calendar

19 Aug 2023

Featured

The Top 6 Simple Habits for a Thriving Gut

Your gut is the silent hero of your health, silently working behind the scenes to keep you feeling your best. The key to a healthy body lies within the depths of your gut, where a delicate balance of bacteria determines your overall well-being. But have you wondered how your gut will do it all without your support? Gut health is one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of overall health. In this blog, let’s explore the various habits… Read more

Featured

The Top 6 Simple Habits for a Thriving Gut

The Top 6 Simple Habits for a Thriving Gut

Your gut is the silent hero of your health, silently working behind the scenes to keep you feeling your best. The key to a healthy body lies within the depths of your gut, where a delicate balance of bacteria determines your overall well-being. But have you wondered how your gut will do it all without your support? Gut health is one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of overall health. In this blog, let’s explore the various habits…

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4 minutes

|

calendar

11 Apr 2023

Featured

Skin and Hair

Taking care of your skin and hair is an important part of overall wellness. Regularly moisturizing, protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding harsh chemicals can help keep your skin and hair looking and feeling healthy.

The Secret to Clear Skin? It’s All in Your Gut

The Secret to Clear Skin? It’s All in Your Gut

From acne to eczema, skin conditions can be frustrating and difficult to manage. But what if we told you that the key to healthy skin might lie in your gut? Your gut health is like the control centre of your body, responsible for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria. But did you know that the state of your gut can also affect your skin health? That's right! Research suggests that a healthy gut is crucial…

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6 minutes

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13 Aug 2023

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How to manage Oily Skin?

How to manage Oily Skin?

Oily skin can be a real challenge to manage. It can make your face look shiny and greasy and lead to breakouts and acne. However, with the proper skincare routine, it is possible to keep oily skin under control and achieve a healthy, balanced complexion. This blog will discuss some of the best ways to manage oily skin. Cleanse Your Skin Twice a Day 8 Tips to Manage Oily Skin Cleansing is the most crucial step in any skincare routine,…

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3 minutes

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06 Aug 2023

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Cracking the Code: Understanding and Treating Dry Skin

Cracking the Code: Understanding and Treating Dry Skin

How to manage dry skin? Dry skin is a common condition that can cause itching, flaking, and tightness. Genetic factors, harsh soaps, cold weather, and low humidity can cause it. If you're struggling with dry skin, there are several things you can do to manage the condition and keep your skin looking and feeling its best. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the best ways to manage dry skin. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser A gentle, hydrating cleanser…

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3 minutes

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29 Jul 2023

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Achieve those luscious locks – 5 tips for healthier hair

Achieve those luscious locks – 5 tips for healthier hair

We all want healthy, shiny, and luscious hair, but most struggle to achieve it. The work is real! Our hair loses its strength for various reasons, such as environmental pollution, unhealthy lifestyle, genetics, and lack of proper care. But worry not! In this blog, we will discuss five tips for stronger hair that will help you achieve your hair goals. Tip #1: Nourish Your Hair From the Inside Out Healthy hair starts with a healthy diet. Your hair needs nutrients…

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2 minutes

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26 May 2023

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Is Sunlight Important for your Health?

Is Sunlight Important for your Health?

As the morning light tip-toes its way into our office space, we, at the editorial team of Shyft can’t help but wonder about this marvel that is — sunlight. Not only does it give us warmth and light, but it also provides us with essential nutrients that we need to survive. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why sunlight is so important for humans, and what happens when we don’t get enough of it. Importance of Sunlight for Physical…

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3 minutes

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27 Apr 2023