1. Skimping on Protein

Not getting enough protein is one of the worst health mistakes to make. Lean protein helps build lean muscle mass, aids in mental focus, regulates your appetite, controls your blood sugar, and provides your body with optimal support. It is essential for those looking for ways to get more protein into your diet naturally.

Opt for complete protein sources such as:

2. Eliminating Fat

By now we all know that fat doesn’t make you fat—but choosing the right sources are key. Healthy fats are vital for hormone production and brain health. Opt for several tablespoons a day from raw nuts and seeds, avocado, coconut, cacao, olives, and nut butters instead of refined oils, animal fats, and heated plant fats for the best options.

3. Avoiding Carbs

Carbs are not the devil, despite what you may have grown up hearing. Not eating carbs can lead to overeating fat, feeling fatigued, being moody, and even mental depression. Opt for “smart carbs” like fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Whole grains are also important but do eat them in moderation if you’re concerned with carbohydrate consumption for weight loss.

4. Not Taking a Multivitamin

A multivitamin aids in a healthy metabolism, better digestion, and overall mental wellness. Be sure to buy a high-quality brand that contains 100% of your daily nutrient needs. Garden of Life and Now Foods are highly reputable brands to consider. Vitamin IV therapies are also an excellent choice for the fastest results; for instance, you can explore mobile IV Atlanta for various options to boost your nutrient intake.

5. Over-exercising

Your body needs to be active so you can feel your best and stay healthy, however, overdoing exercise can actually cause constant food cravings, anxiety, poor muscle recovery, injury, depression, fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies if you’re not refueling properly. Unless you’re a professional athlete, one hour a day is more than enough. Balance is key to avoiding signs you are over-exercising and burning out.

6. Not Exercising

On the flip side, not being active at all is just as detrimental, if not more. A sedentary lifestyle is one of the leading causes of obesity, depression, overeating, muscle deterioration, a slow metabolism, and poor digestion. Be sure you get at least 30 minutes a day of some type of aerobic exercise like walking, running, jogging, or biking. Yoga, Pilates, HIIT, and barre classes are also great options.

7. Not Eating Whole Foods

Fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and beans should all be regular staples in your meals. Refined, fried, and fast-food options don’t count. These foods help keep you full, give you energy, enhance your natural beauty, and boost your metabolism. They are excellent sources of fiber that help control blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

| Food Category | Examples | Benefits | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Leafy Greens | Spinach, Kale | High in vitamins A, C, K | | Berries | Blueberries, Raspberries | Antioxidant powerhouse | | Healthy Fats | Avocado, Walnuts | Heart and brain health |

8. Not Drinking Water

How many glasses do you drink a day? Water is key for a healthy cellular metabolism and for keeping you hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, cravings, moodiness, dry mouth, and constipation. Always opt for pure water (adding lemon or lime is a great way to enhance the flavor) and aim for 6 to 8 glasses a day whenever you can. Check out the Mayo Clinic guide to hydration for more detailed recommendations.

9. Skimping on Sleep

Burning the candle at both ends takes a huge toll on your health. Anything less than 7 hours of sleep will likely lead to cravings, depression, fatigue, weight gain, and general anxiety. Quality rest is just as important as diet and exercise for your overall well-being. For more information on the importance of rest, visit the Sleep Foundation.

If you make any of these health mistakes, all you have to do is take action to change that today. Which of these do you find yourself doing, and what steps will you take to improve your habits?

Sources: livestrong.com, mindbodygreen.com, eatingwell.com, webmd.com, shape.com, mayoclinic.org, health.harvard.edu