You may be aware that things that are deemed “bad for us” may actually benefit us in
some ways, two examples: Coffee and eggs.
How many times in the past 2 decades have you been warned they’ll do you great harm,
well today, we know that eggs especially the yolks benefit our health in a number
of ways, (thicker hair and nails and improved eyesight).

So, if you’ve been told about certain habits that are “bad” for you, take some time
and really look into why it’s bad for you and if you should stop doing it and to help
you along, in that decision, here are some habits that are deemed “bad”
but can actually benefit you.

“Bad Habit” No. 1-
Playing Hooky-
Usually frowned upon if you’re a student, but as an adult taking time off from
work can help you increase antibodies in your mucus that’s the first lines of defense
against colds, flu, and other viruses. That’s because having fun reduces levels of the
stress hormone cortisol, making your immune system more robust.

“Bad Habit” No. 2-
Not Spending-
In other words, the constant concern about how much everything costs.
It’s funny, people don’t hesitate when it comes to the lottery, (Powerball or
Scratch-offs) but if they see a nice pair of shoes or coat (and really
need the shoes and coat) they’ll go back and forth, beat themselves up
for spending money foolishly and criticize themselves for days and even months.
But wait, researchers say that feeling good about treating yourself increases
your levels of virus-fighting antibodies.
Another tip: Some people who dabble in the “manifestation” communities
claim that always being in a state of denial (“I can’t afford that” or “it costs too much’)
will actually leave you more broke and unable to manifest good things in your life.
So, go ahead and splurge once in a awhile, it’ll keep colds and flu at bay.

“Bad Habit” No. 3-
Dig Into Dessert-
If you deny yourself all sweet treats and do so for health reasons,
that’s okay, continue to do it, but if you’re concerned a cookie or brownie will ruin
your health, that’s not realistic, and if you need a burst of energy or want to remember a
name or date, then you should have a cookie or a sip of soda.
Middle-aged adults who enjoy some sugar get a surge in recall about 45% greater than
those in their teens who eat the same amount of the sweet treats. How so?
Turns out, over time we become more sensitive to increases in blood sugar from sweets,
which means even a small dose of glucose is energizing for older and wiser brains.
Another benefit of a sweet treat: If you are dieting and have sworn off sweets but are
struggling (constant thoughts and cravings) researchers say choose a little of that
dessert and have it after eating “your healthy meal” or have it once a week.
Doing this helps you feel less deprived and keeps you on track.

“Bad Habit” No.4-
Sitting Back and Relaxing-
If you feel guilty about sitting back and relaxing (like you do about spending money)
stop, taking some “me time” to sit down and relax can improve your vocabulary
and reasoning skills. How? Researchers think that people who relax may be
using that time to engage in mind-enhancing activities like reading and doing
crossword puzzles.

“Bad Habit” No. 5-
Exercising Too Much-
Another bad habit too many engage in, trying to get in 10,000 steps
or exercising for 30 to 60 mins each day. It’s been determined that
a few mins. of activity will allow you to get fit and remain fit.
Cleaning the tub and floor for 15 mins. Sweeping the outside of your front
door or even taking the trash bins out to the end of the driveway also count.
Engaging in low-intensity types of movement cuts tiredness by 60% and
increases vitality by 25%. In short, little bursts of activity a few times
a week boosts circulation and stimulates your central nervous system
enough to provide endurance and vigor.

“Bad Habit” No. 6-
Spending Time Online-
Yes, you shouldn’t spend an inordinate amount of time watching negative
news (crime or politics) but watching an old comedy routine (Rodney
Dangerfield) or cats and puppies frollicking can increase dopamine and endorphins,
enough to help you get rid of negative thoughts and leave you smiling and feeling
upbeat. Remember, spend no more than 30 mins. online at a time.

“Bad Habit” No 7-
Quiet At Meal Times-
“Don’t talk with your mouth full” has been used by parents and grandparents for generations,
but chewing, swallowing and then talking is great for your heart. Chewing slowly and then
talking allows you to get through the meal in 20 to 25 mins. and this is enough time to
help you avoid a host of health issues, like heart disease, type-2 diabetes and strokes.
How so, you ask? Chewing too quickly and trying to finish a meal in record time only overloads
your body with too many calories, and those calories overload the heart, kidneys,
lungs, and other organs and vital arteries.

“Bad Habit” No. 8-
Less Coffee-
You can decide how much coffee is best for you, but now, researchers are saying an
extra cup (or two) each day can usher in a protective protein into your mitochrondria,
the little powerhouses within your cells, helping to preserve and repair heart
muscle cells.
Important tip: Make sure not to overload your daily cup (s) of coffee with extra sugar
and sweet treats, (cookies, scones, a slice of pie or doughnuts)

“Bad Habit” No. 9-
Go To Bed On Time-
If you’re diligent about getting to bed at the same time each night, relax,
staying up late once a week, or once a month can boost your moods.
Occasionally skimping on sleep can help you experience a 50% surge in mood,
which is equivalent to taking an antidepressant. Less sleep every now and again,
resets your body clock, helping the brain churn out mood-lifting chemicals that
keep you happy and upbeat.
Also helpful: Be impulsive once in a while. Making a snap decision based on emotions
makes you happier about your choice than if you’d spent hours trying to decide what
to do.

“Bad Habit” No. 10
Stop Daydreaming-
We encourage our kids to do it, but once they reach a certain age, we tell them-
“stop daydreaming and grow up.” Well, that’s bad advice, daydreaming can actually
help each of us come up with innovative solutions to real challenges.
Allowing one’s mind to drift activates the area of the brain associated with complex
problem-solving skills. So next time you’re trying to figure out something that’s
perplexing, sit back and daydream about a solution.
Fun Fact:
It’s rumored that Albert Einstein would take naps to try and come up
with solutions and the inventor of the cotton gin, Eli Whitney couldn’t
figure out how to make it (cotton gin) work and finally got the answer that
he needed from a dream.

That’s it, the “bad things” that may do you some good.
And if you’re having a little extra turkey or lasagne or deep-dish apple pie this
Christmas, remember, it’s only for today, so don’t feel guilty.
Merry Christmas everyone -from all of us here at GroceryListsRxs.com

Sources:
* Pittsburgh University, Research Dept.
* Journal of Alternative Health
* Canadian Researchers
* Ordinary Genius, The Story of Albert Einstein
* German Scientists
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One last reminder:
If you still haven’t gotten one Christmas gift and need some help,
click on the buy button at the top of this blog and download the
E-Doc, called The Procrastinator’s Guide To Shopping For Last Minute
Christmas Gifts Under $100.00
Also available at Amazon.com/the kindle store under the same title.