Halloween Health Horrors: The Worst (And Yet Common!) Things You Can Do For Your Health
In light of spooky season, I thought it was a good time to dive into the truly scary ways we commonly and routinely wreak havoc on our body’s health.
The good news is, a few simple habit changes can go a long way in reversing the effects of these and laying the foundation for years of good health to come.
1. Processed Food: The Frankenstein Feast
If Frankenstein’s monster was a meal, it would be made of processed foods—pieces stitched together with chemicals, preservatives, and added sugars. Processed snacks may seem like a treat, but they’re often a nightmare for your body. Those spooky-sounding ingredients on the label? They’re the true horror, contributing to weight gain, inflammation, and heart problems. And don’t be fooled by the bright, tempting packaging—it’s like a monster in disguise!
The Horror: Processed foods are high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, which can increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
The Trick: Choose whole, natural foods that are nourishing and alive with real vitamins and minerals. A plate of veggies won’t come back to haunt you later!
2. Inadequate Nutrition: The Skeleton Diet
Ever feel like you’re running on empty? That’s the result of a skeleton diet—one that’s stripped bare of essential nutrients. Like a skeleton missing its bones, a diet lacking in fruits, vegetables, and proteins leaves your body fragile and weak. Skipping key nutrients is like inviting a hungry vampire into your home—it drains your energy and leaves you feeling hollow.
The Horror:
Weakened immune system
Reduces energy levels
Affects your mental health, leading to foggy thinking and mood swings.
The Trick: Fill up on colorful, nutrient-rich foods! Fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats help build a strong, resilient body—no skeleton diet here.
3. Sedentary Living: The Silent Killer
With the rise in technology, that’s led to many of us spending our days sitting in front of a computer screen all day long. When we get home, we switch to the TV, or scroll on Instagram. It’s estimated only about 50% of Canadians get the amount of exercise they need.
The Horror:
Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Lack of movement also stiffens your joints and weakens muscles, making you feel older than you are.
The Trick: Break the sedentary spell by moving more! Even short bursts of activity can re-energize you and get your blood flowing. Go for a brisk walk, dance around the house, or take the stairs instead of the elevator—anything to keep you feeling alive!
4. Overindulging in Sugar: The Sweet Trap
We all know this time of year means candy and treats galore, but overindulging in sugar is one of the worst things you can do for your health. Unfortunately, many modern diets rely heavily on processed foods which also chock full of… shudder.. hidden sugars. A diet loaded with sugar can lead to blood sugar spikes, crashes, and inflammation in the body.
The Horror:
Increases risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Weakens the immune system, leaving you vulnerable to colds (just in time for flu season!).
Promotes tooth decay (and no, Dracula doesn’t count as a dentist).
The Trick: Opt for healthier treats. Dark chocolate, which is lower in sugar and full of antioxidants, can be a slightly healthier option. Check your labels, and look for sugar content you might not expect. Sugar alternatives, such as stevia, monk fruit, or even dates are great alternatives!
5. Drinking Too Much: The Witch's Brew Woes
While a glass of wine or a festive cocktail can be fun, overdoing it leads to more than just a wicked hangover. Excessive drinking weakens the liver, dehydrates the body, and can wreak havoc on mental health.
The Horror:
Dehydration, which can leave you feeling worse than Frankenstein’s monster in the morning.
Interference with quality sleep
The Trick: Consider mocktails for a non-alcoholic alternative that won’t leave you cursing yourself the next day!
6. Letting Stress Run the Show: The Real Monster
Work, responsibilities, and keeping up with the social whirlwind can leave you feeling frazzled. Stress is one of the most overlooked health risks, and it can sneak up on you, especially during holiday celebrations.
The Horror:
Raises cortisol levels, leading to anxiety, fatigue, and even weight gain.
Weakens the immune system, which is already taxed during the colder months.
The Trick: Take some time to relax! Delegate tasks, avoid overcommitting, and remember: life is supposed to be fun. Make sure to incorporate time to just be, without a schedule!
7. Skipping Sleep: The Zombie Effect
Late-nights, early mornings, or evening doom scrolling may seem harmless, but sacrificing sleep can be one of the scariest mistakes you make for your health. Sleep is crucial for immune function, memory, mood, and even weight regulation.
The Horror:
Increases risk of accidents and injuries due to fatigue.
Impairs your brain’s ability to concentrate
Weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.
The Trick: Make sleep a priority. Aim for 7-9 hours, and avoid caffeine and blue light exposure late in the day to ensure a restful night.
8. Neglecting Hydration: The Creeping Dryness
Let’s face it, in today's busy world, it’s easy to forget to hydrate. Maybe you’re chugging back coffee or juice instead, but skipping water can leave you feeling drained and sluggish.
The Horror:
Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and dizziness
It slows digestion and makes you feel bloated, especially after too much candy or salty snacks.
The Trick: Carry a water bottle with you. Hydrate regularly to keep your energy up and your body functioning smoothly. You can also add fruit or herbs to your water to add flavor if you need a little motivation! Drinking spring water or adding trace minerals will also give you a hydration boost!
Healthy living doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a few simple, foundational precautions, you can enjoy all life has to offer without falling into these frightening health traps. After all, the scariest thing of all is not taking care of your health!