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Healthy Habits for Teenagers

Developing healthy routines during your teen years is extremely important, as it will ensure that you are healthy as you enter adulthood. Having a routine centered around your health will not only make you feel physically better, it will also improve your performance in school. Making small adjustments in your lifestyle and routine will help lead to a healthier life for years to come.

  1. Eat Breakfast

    • In the busy hustle of getting ready for school each day, it can be tempting to forgo breakfast. However, breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day. Breakfast provides your body with the calories and nutrition it needs to function properly, and skipping this essential meal can take a negative toll on your academic performance. Eating a healthy breakfast will not only keep you satisfied until lunch, it will help you concentrate and focus better in school.

    Follow the Food Pyramid

    • The food pyramid is an illustrated tool that helps people better understand their body's nutritional needs. It tells you how many servings of each food group you need to ingest daily in order to maximize your health. For example, you should aim to eat two to three servings of meat, poultry or fish per day and three to five servings of vegetables. Following the food pyramid will reduce the risk of you developing obesity and will maximize your performance in school.

    Stay Active

    • You don't have to join the football team in order to stay in shape during high school. Making small changes in your routine such as walking or riding your bike to school will ensure that you remain active. This will improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing obesity. Staying active may also help you feel more alert and focused in school.

    Avoid Drinking and Smoking

    • During your teen years, you may be pressured by peers to engage in illegal behaviors, such as underage drinking and smoking. Not only is consuming alcohol against the law if you are under the age of 21, it is also very bad for your body, primarily your liver. Cigarette smoking can put you at risk for lung and gum cancer and can make it difficult for you to breathe. Avoiding these two behaviors in high school will keep you out of trouble and keep you healthy.

    Get Enough Sleep

    • It may be tempting to stay up studying all night for an upcoming test, but failing to get a full eight hours of sleep on a regular basis is bad for your health. Your body is not done developing during your teenage years, so it is essential that you obtain enough rest to allow your brain and body to recharge. Getting a good night's sleep will drastically improve your performance in school and at work.

    Drink Water

    • When choosing what to drink with your lunch or while hanging out with friends on the weekend, you will likely reach for a soda or energy drink first. However, both of these options are filled with sugar, caffeine and empty calories that your body does not need. Choosing to drink water will keep you hydrated, allowing all of your organs to function properly.

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