Many habits that seem healthy at first glance can have downsides when done too often or at the wrong time. From exercising without eating to brushing your teeth immediately after a meal, small changes can make your daily routine more balanced.
1. Working Out on an Empty Stomach
If you exercise first thing in the morning, consider having a small snack or breakfast beforehand, especially if you feel weak or lightheaded when training fasted. A simple combination of carbohydrates and protein can provide energy without feeling too heavy.
2. Taking Apple Cider Vinegar Shots on an Empty Stomach
Apple cider vinegar is popular in wellness routines, but drinking concentrated vinegar can irritate the digestive system and contribute to tooth enamel erosion. If you use it, consider diluting it with plenty of water and avoiding direct contact with your teeth.
3. Taking Multivitamins With Coffee
Coffee and other caffeinated drinks can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, particularly iron. Rather than taking your multivitamin with your morning coffee, consider separating the two by at least an hour and following the supplement’s instructions.
4. Restricting Carbohydrates Too Much
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy and contribute to a balanced diet. Severely restricting them isn’t necessary for most people. Instead, focus on nutritious carbohydrate sources such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
5. Brushing Your Teeth Immediately After Eating
Brushing is essential for good oral health, but brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks may contribute to enamel wear. Waiting around 30 minutes before brushing can give your enamel time to recover. In the meantime, rinsing your mouth with water can help.
6. Washing Your Hair Every Day
Daily shampooing isn’t necessary for everyone and may leave some scalps and hair feeling dry or irritated. Depending on your hair type, scalp, and lifestyle, washing every few days may be more appropriate. A clarifying or deep-cleansing shampoo can occasionally help remove product buildup.
7. Wearing Tight Workout Clothes All Day
Tight, sweaty clothing can trap moisture against the skin and contribute to irritation, chafing, or clogged pores. Changing out of workout clothes after exercising and choosing breathable, comfortable clothing can help keep your skin healthier.
8. Relying on Store-Bought Smoothies
Not every smoothie is automatically a healthy choice. Some commercially prepared smoothies contain significant amounts of fruit juice or added sugar while providing relatively little protein, fat, or fiber. When possible, make your own using whole fruit and add ingredients such as Greek yogurt, nuts, seeds, or protein to create a more balanced drink.
Small Changes Can Make a Difference
Healthy living isn’t about following every wellness trend. It’s about understanding what your body needs and making sustainable choices. Reviewing everyday habits and making a few simple adjustments can help create a more balanced approach to exercise, nutrition, oral care, hair care, and skin health.
Riley Maloney is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN) with over 6 years of clinical experience helping individuals heal their relationship with food, recover from eating disorders, and improve their health without restrictive dieting. Practicing virtually from Chicago and contributing nutrition expertise to Doctiplus, Riley has supported over 800 clients on their journeys toward food freedom and body acceptance.