Have you ever thought about how your morning and bedtime habits affect your health? Even the slightest difference in sleep duration on weekends compared with weekdays can increase your risk of insulin resistance by 39 percent and obesity by 17 percent. The morning coffee ritual, exercise timing, breakfast and other daily habits have a huge impact on overall health. So, here are some simple ways to improve your morning and bedtime routine:
Have a Healthy Breakfast
Most people mindlessly grab whatever is around for breakfast. According to researchers, it’s better to skip the first meal of the day rather than eating a doughnut or junk food. If you don’t have time to make breakfast, wait until lunch or grab a healthy snack.
Go Beyond SPF
It’s no secret that SPF products fight free radical damage and keep your skin young. However, you need more than that to protect your skin from smog, dust, debris, and other pollutants. Before leaving home, apply a high-antioxidant cream along with sunscreen.
Drink Your Coffee
Always start your day with a big cup of joe. Studies indicate that drinking three to five cups per day is safe for most people. Regular coffee consumption can significantly lower your risk of type II diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also a good way to prevent multiple sclerosis and skin cancer, so go ahead and enjoy your coffee!
Control Your Exposure to Light
When it’s dark, your brain produces more melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin levels are lower during the day. For this reason, it’s recommended to avoid bright lights at night – especially from exposure to computer and TV screens, smartphones, and tablets. To sleep better, say no to late-night television and keep your room dark at bedtime. If you wake up at night, do not turn on the lights.
