"10 Things People Do That Doctors Hate" Review
Introduction
You're always told what you should do, but do you really know what your doctor hates? I've extracted my favorites from the Harvard Health Publications article "10 Things People Do That Doctors Hate" for you. Whether this list relates to fitness or weight loss, it certainly affects your overall health (which destroys any effort with a personal trainer). Make each one your priority (and I'll tell you why here).
1. USING COTTON TIP SWABS TO CLEAN EARS
Inserting a cotton-tipped swab into the ear can push ear wax farther into the canal and may damage the eardrum.
Personal Trainer Wisdom: Usually, I need to wear 'Earplanes' earplugs to minimize the pressure or pain in my ears during and after flights. I never experienced any discomfort until my flight to Denver 6 years ago. To my surprise, earplugs weren't to blame. When I visited the doctor, I learned that ear wax was pressing against my ear drum. Ironically, I always cleaned my ears with swabs! I thought I was removing the ear wax when, in fact, I was pushing the wax and other particles to the back (what an excellent thought). The moral of this story: Clean your ears every once in a while with a swab, but don't obsess over it, and rely on less evasive measures (you are placing a stick in your ear, after all).
2. LICKING WOUNDS
...as natural as it may be for animals to lick their wounds, the human mouth is full of bacteria.
Personal Trainer Wisdom: Hmmmmmm...Although mirroring our animal counterparts is fun, you may want to consider a new boundary line. Any time you wound yourself, you should always minimize the risk of infection. Licking the fresh cut isn't the answer. The bacteria in your mouth will only add fire to something already burning. Be sure to disinfect and bandage as soon as possible and save the licking for the zoo.
3. REFUSING THE FLU SHOT BECAUSE "I ALWAYS GET THE FLU AFTERWARD"
The vaccine is made from inactive virus particles.
Personal Trainer Wisdom: There isn't much else to say here except "The vaccine is made from inactive virus particles." The flu shot will NOT make you sick. If you feel ill afterward, consider it a result of something you already contracted.
4. DRINKING BEER TO QUENCH A SUMMER THIRST.
Alcohol can act as a diuretic. So instead of conserving water on a hot summer’s day, your kidneys spill more water.
Personal Trainer Wisdom: Nothing quenches your thirst on a hot, humid day in Chicago like an Old Style beer, right? Not all liquids are created equal; beer isn't the exception here. It does the opposite since it acts as a diuretic (sorry!). Considering that your liver and kidneys are two of your most important organs for longevity, you may want to choose a glass of water first mindfully.
What things has your doctor told you he or she hated? Anything related to weight loss or personal fitness?
Picture Credit:
Simplemost.com/william87-Fotolia-Besides the effect on your personal weight loss, would your doctor tell you not to drink beer for other reasons too?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER
As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.
Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).
If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!