Want to feel better and live longer? Start by quitting these harmful habits

Exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet are essential to keep your body healthy. However, getting rid of a few detrimental habits can have also a positive impact on your health. These habits, be it mental, physical, or emotional, can hold you back from reaching your full potential. If you're ready to make a positive change, consider taking steps towards breaking these habits and embracing a healthier lifestyle.

According to a study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), adopting healthier habits could help protect you from serious conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Making changes like eating well and staying active can also boost your energy levels and support weight management. Plus, if you keep at it, breaking from bad habits and following healthy ones can become a natural part of your everyday routine.

Here’s a list of habits you must quit:

Also read | These 10 bad habits are harming your health and fitness

• Stop smoking for good: Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable diseases. The toxic chemicals in cigarettes damage your lungs, increase your risk of cancer, heart disease, and even contribute to premature ageing. Kicking the habit reduces your chances of chronic health conditions. It's never too late to quit, and doing so will improve your quality of life and longevity.

• Cut back on alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can have a detrimental effect on your liver, brain, and emotional well-being. Studies suggest that cutting back on alcohol can help reduce your risk of liver disease, high blood pressure, and even some cancers. It can also improve your mental health, as alcohol is often a depressant, contributing to anxiety and mood swings.

• Avoid processed and junk foods: Highly processed foods are loaded with unhealthy fats, refined sugars, and preservatives, contributing to weight gain, inflammation, and a higher risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Replacing these with whole, nutritious foods can improve your energy levels, immune function, and energy.

• Silence your inner critic: The voice inside your head can either be a source of motivation or self-sabotage. Negative self-talk, harsh judgments, and perfectionism can drain your mental energy and hinder personal growth. Replacing this inner critic with compassion and self-encouragement allows you to focus on progress rather than perfection.

• Reduce chronic stress and burnout: Living in a constant state of stress takes a toll on your body and mind. It can lead to fatigue, anxiety, and even serious health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease.

• Say no to sedentary life: Stop being lazy and learn to move more and eat healthy. Introducing movement to your daily routine is vital for maintaining a healthy body. Sitting for prolonged periods, common in today’s digital age, leads to poor circulation, weight gain, and fatigue. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day, whether it’s walking, stretching, or engaging in a workout. Regular movement and healthy diet improve heart health, boosts energy, and help you feel more focused and productive.

• Limit excessive screen time: While technology keeps you connected, excessive screen time can be detrimental to your health. It can affect your eyes, disrupt your sleep patterns, and even hinder social interactions. Taking regular breaks from screens helps maintain your mental and physical health.