Habits that can make your life healthier

Your daily habits could actually be detrimental for you in the long run. And by working on these small habits, you could make a big difference to your well-being.

• While brushing twice a day is a must, don't think flossing is any less important. Flossing effectively removes bad bacteria from your mouth and also removes plaque build-up that is present in those areas of your teeth that a toothbrush can't reach. When plaque isn't removed, it gnaws away the bone that ensures that your tooth stays in place. 
• If you are one of those who believe in eating three big meals a day, you could be doing yourself more harm than good. Break your meals up into several small meals so that you're eating every 2-3 hours and won't go hungry. Eating three large meals means that you end up eating more at each meal — and pile on those dreaded pounds. Eating whenever you're hungry will reduce the chances of binge eating.
• Are you aware of how many steps you take in a day? Experts reckon you need to take at least 10,000. While keeping a count is not possible, what you can do is to wear a pedometer, which will do the job for you. It will also make you aware of how much more you need to walk in a day. 
• Invest in a good pair of gym/ workout clothes. This will act as an incentive to exercise. 
• Don't be strict with yourself all the time; it's alright to cut yourself some slack at times. Accept your limitations and embrace your plus points. The happier you feel about yourself, the more it will reflect in your life. Focus on the good things and let go of things that aren't in your control. This acceptance will actually help you feel better overall. 
• Don't forget to include a blood test to check your vitamin D blood levels when you go for an annual checkup. Thousands suffer from a deficiency of this important vitamin, which can cause tiredness and lethargy among other things. So get yourself tested. 
• Switch off the television during mealtimes — being distracted when you're eating means you end up eating more than is required. Instead, put on some soft music in the background. Avoid fast music as experts say that listening to fast music while eating makes you eat more than usual.