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It's a common belief that unpredictable weather is the primary culprit behind frequent illnesses. However, even under normal weather conditions, our bodies can fall victim to diseases due to unhealthy daily habits. These habits can significantly weaken our immune system, rendering us more susceptible to infections and various ailments.
5 Common Habits That Can Increase Your Risk of Getting Sick
Here are five common habits that can compromise your immune system and increase your chances of getting sick:
Nail Biting: This habit, often linked to stress or anxiety, is more than just an undesirable behavior. It can introduce harmful bacteria into your body through your mouth. Our hands are a breeding ground for germs, and biting nails can heighten the risk of catching colds and other infections.
Dehydration: Our bodies are comprised of 60% water, and staying properly hydrated is essential for optimal health. Dehydration weakens our immune system, making us more vulnerable to illnesses. It also disrupts other bodily functions, including brain function, mood regulation, skin health, and waste removal.
Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of chronic diseases and weaken the immune system. Regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also boosts brain health, improves sleep quality, and strengthens our muscles, bones, heart, and lungs.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is paramount for overall health. Neglecting to brush and floss regularly can lead to a buildup of bacteria in our mouths, which can then enter the bloodstream and increase the risk of various diseases. “The mouth is a gateway for bacteria to enter the body,” emphasizes family doctor Neha Vyas.
Chronic Stress: While short-term stress can actually strengthen our immune system, prolonged stress has the opposite effect. Chronic stress weakens our body's ability to fight off illnesses, increases the risk of catching colds, atherosclerosis, and depression, and reduces the activity of natural killer cells that fight cancer.
Recognizing and modifying these habits can significantly improve our health. Don't allow bad habits to compromise our well-being.
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