It’s easy to think we’re doing “okay” health-wise, especially if nothing major seems wrong. But many of us pick up everyday habits that can impact our wellbeing overtime.
Here are 10 common harmful habits and small changes that can make a big difference:
1. Brushing off regular check-ups
Health checks and recommended screenings (like blood pressure, cholesterol, prostate or diabetes risk assessments) are designed to catch problems early, when they’re easiest to treat. Delaying these checks can mean symptoms are only noticed when things have already progressed.
2. Sitting too much
Desk jobs, long commutes and couch time all add up. Too much sitting is linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and even some cancers. Try standing up every 30 minutes, or taking a walk between meetings.
3. Skimping on sleep
Not sleeping enough (or well) disrupts your immune system, increases cravings, impairs focus and raises your long-term risk of several chronic conditions, including dementia.
4. Using alcohol or caffeine to ‘unwind’
While a glass of wine or coffee can feel like a quick fix, relying on these to manage stress or energy can backfire. Both affect sleep quality and, in excess, can raise blood pressure or worsen anxiety.
5. Ignoring mild symptoms
Nagging fatigue? Frequent urination? Slight pain you keep meaning to get checked? Small symptoms are often early signs of something worth investigating; whether it’s nutrient deficiencies, diabetes, or something more serious.
6. Avoiding uncomfortable conversations
Whether it’s talking to your GP about your mental health, prostate symptoms or libido, embarrassment stops many people, especially men, from getting help. A quit chat with your GP could make a huge difference to your long-term health.
7. Snacking without noticing
Grabbing handfuls of crisps, biscuits or leftovers throughout the day might not seem like much but these ‘mindless’ calories can add up. Keeping a food diary for a few days can be eye-opening.
8. Eating too much ultra-processed food
Ready meals, packaged snacks, and fast food often contain added sugars, salts, and fats that impact heart health and blood sugar. Cooking more from scratch, even simple meals, can make a big difference.
9. Neglecting your mental load
Stress isn’t just ‘in your head.’ Chronic stress contributes to everything from headaches and insomnia to inflammation, high blood pressure and burnout. Taking time to unwind, set boundaries and ask for help isn’t selfish, it’s necessary.
10. Thinking ‘It won’t happen to me’
This mindset stops many from acting on risk factors like family history, weight gain, or smoking. But knowledge is power and early action saves lives.
One small change today can change everything tomorrow.
If you’ve spotted something on this list that hits home, don’t panic! The beauty of lifestyle habits is that they’re changeable. Start small. Stay curious about your health. And most of all, don’t ignore your body’s signals.
📌 Want more? Try a quick online health check or speak to your GP or pharmacist about what screenings or advice might be right for you.
