Everyone has different ideas of what living a healthy lifestyle looks like. Some people think that as long as they’re not smoking cigarettes and eating junk food all the time they’re doing alright.
However, there are many other factors that contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle. If you’re a nurse, you might see and recognize unhealthy habits all the time.
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Living an Unhealthy Lifestyle
Nonetheless, it can sometimes be difficult to spot the signs of an unhealthy lifestyle in yourself. Here are 10 signs that you may be living an unhealthy lifestyle, even if you don’t realize it.
1. You Have Sleep Issues
If you’re constantly tossing and turning at night after taking off your nurse scrubs and hopping into bed, it’s a sign that something is off. Maybe you’re not getting enough exercise during the day, or maybe you’re eating too close to bedtime.
Regardless of the cause, not being able to sleep is a surefire sign that you’re living an unhealthy lifestyle.
Additionally, if you find yourself relying on caffeine to get you through the day, it’s another sign that you’re not getting enough rest at night. Caffeine is a stimulant and can make sleep problems worse. When consumed too close to bedtime, it can keep you from getting the deep, restful sleep that your body needs.
2. You Have Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that can be caused by numerous different factors. However, one of the most common causes of acne is an unhealthy lifestyle.
If you’re not eating right or if you’re not getting enough sleep, it can show up on your skin in the form of breakouts.
Hormonal issues are another potential cause of acne, and they’re often exacerbated by an unhealthy lifestyle. Eating a lot of processed foods or not getting enough exercise can cause your hormones to get out of balance. This can lead to breakouts as well as a host of other health problems.
3. Your Fingernails Are Weak
If your fingernails are constantly breaking or splitting, it’s a sign that you might not be taking care of yourself. This is often caused by a lack of vitamins and minerals in your diet. Not eating enough fruits and vegetables while not taking a multivitamin can lead to weak nails.
If you’re a smoker, it’s another reason why your nails might be weak. Smoking can decrease the blood flow to your fingers and toes, which can lead to brittle nails.
If you suspect that you struggle with poor circulation, ask your doctor if you could benefit from wearing compression socks under your jogger scrubs.
4. Your Urine Is Dark
If your urine is dark, it’s a sign that you’re not drinking enough water. When your body is dehydrated, your urine will be darker because it’s concentrated.
This can also lead to other problems like headaches and fatigue. The average adult needs at least 75 ounces of water per day. If this sounds daunting, consider buying a 75-ounce insulated water bottle and carrying it in your duffel bag for consistent sipping throughout the day.
5. Your Bowel Movements Are Irregular
If you’re not having regular bowel movements, it’s a sign that your digestive system is not working properly.
This can be caused by several different factors, including a lack of fiber in your diet. Not eating enough fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lead to constipation. Not drinking enough water can also lead to constipation. When you’re dehydrated, your body will absorb more water from your stool, which can make it harder to pass.
6. The Whites of Your Eyes Are Discolored
Your eyes can be a window into your overall health. If the whites of your eyes are yellow, it’s a sign that something is off.
This is often caused by liver problems, such as hepatitis. Additionally, if you find that your eyes are always red and irritated, it could be a sign of allergies or dry eye. Both of these conditions can be exacerbated by an unhealthy lifestyle.
7. You Have Frequent Gas
If you’re constantly passing gas, it’s a sign that your digestive system is not functioning effectively. This can be caused by numerous factors, including food intolerances or irritable bowel syndrome. Inadequate water intake can also lead to gas and bloating.
8. You Have Bad Breath
If you have bad breath, it’s a sign that something is off in your mouth. This is often caused by poor dental hygiene or by a build-up of bacteria in your mouth.
If you work long shifts, consider carrying travel-size oral hygiene products in the pockets of your nurse scrubs. Additionally, if you are a smoker, that could be another contributor to your bad breath. Smoking can cause a build-up of tar and nicotine in your mouth, which can lead to bad breath.
9. You’re Always Stressed
If you’re always stressed, it’s a sign that your lifestyle is out of balance. When you’re constantly under stress, your body releases the hormone cortisol.
This hormone can lead to many different health problems, including weight gain, high blood pressure, and anxiety. Chronic stress can also weaken your immune system.
If you’re constantly stressed, you’re more likely to get sick. If your job is making you stressed or if you’re constantly juggling too many responsibilities, it’s important to find a way to reduce your stress levels. There are many different ways to do this, but things as simple as wearing more comfortable jogger scrubs or making time for self-care during your breaks can help.
10. You Struggle With Motivation
If you’re struggling to feel motivated to accomplish day-to-day tasks or even to do things you once enjoyed, it’s a sign that something is off.
This can be caused by numerous different factors, including depression or sleep disorders. An unhealthy lifestyle can also lead to a lack of motivation.
If you’re not eating right, getting enough exercise, or getting enough sleep, you may have trouble finding the energy to do anything else.
Make a Change
Don’t wait until it’s too late to make a change. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to take a step back and evaluate your lifestyle.
If you’re not living a healthy lifestyle, it’s time to make some changes. Making simple changes, like eating more fruits and vegetables or getting regular exercise, can make a big difference in your overall health.
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Chibueze Uchegbu is a certified medical physiologist with a great passion for healthy living.