10 Surprising Health Hacks You Should Know
We know you want to be healthier, but not everyone has time to hit the gym or meet with a nutritionist. Whether you’re trying to lose weight or searching for a natural energy boost, there’s a couple nifty options rooted in science and super easy to get started right away. We’ve gathered some of our favorite hacks to bring your health to the next level.
Drink Lemon Water
Squeeze lemon into lukewarm water first thing in the morning and drink up. It’s insanely inexpensive and packs a ton of vitamin C, potassium and copper. This means less toxins in the body, better digestion, and a jumpstart to your metabolism!
Listen to Music
Believe it or not, music will improve your performance and increase motivation. The most important parts are tempo and rhythm response — for running, aim for 160 beats per minute. The effects of increased motivation start at around 145 beats per minute.
Add Some Coconut Oil to Your Coffee
That’s right. Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to your morning coffee. It’ll keep your blood sugar stable throughout the day, which means fewer highs and lows.
Smell an Orange
We know it’s hard to believe, but smelling the skin of an orange is a natural mood enhancer! One study showed that it reduced anxiety and boosted alertness. If you don’t keep oranges around, grab some bottled orange essential oil and rub a drop or two on your temples and each wrist for the same effect.
Take an Aspirin a Day
If you’re doctor OK’s it, consider taking a baby aspirin once daily. According to the University of London, doing this for 10 years reduces the risk of colon cancer and stomach cancer by over 30% in adults ages 50–65.
Eat More Yogurt
Get probiotics in your system any way you can. These microorganisms will aid digestion and improve immunity. A college campus study published in the British Journal of Nutrition showed that students who ingested probiotics daily reported fewer cold symptoms and faster recoveries.
Use Basil Oil to Get Rid of Headaches
You’re probably familiar with basil — an herb used in pizzas and pastas. Did you know it’s oils are a natural headache treatment? Basil oil works as a muscle relaxant, helpful for headaches caused by tension and tight muscles. Pour a couple drops in to your hand and massage it into the affected areas.
Use Cinnamon Instead of Sugar
Cream and sugar aren’t the healthiest additions to your coffee. Instead try cinnamon to provide that morning kick. It not only has fewer calories than cream, it also reduces triglycerides and stabilizes blood sugar levels, and provides antioxidants to boost your immune system.
Take a Shot of Liquid Chlorophyll
Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants, and can boost your health in many ways. One tablespoon a day can provide a full day’s worth of vitamins and minerals, boost red blood cell production, and increase your energy. You can pick it up in any health food store and some supermarkets.
Eat Some Ginger for Pain Relief
After hitting the gym, the soreness can be a little too much. One study published in the Journal of Pain found that individuals who consumed 2 grams of raw ginger daily reported a 25% greater reduction in post-workout pain. It’s antioxidants have inflammation-reducing properties similar to Ibuprofen.
By Ali Zaman, Growth at HERO
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