Vaping, Pulling All-Nighters, and Other Bad Habits to Avoid, According to a Doctor
Dr. Jess Andrade, a sports medicine specialist and pediatrician in Massachusetts, is sharing the four activities she won’t do. She warns that these habits can have serious consequences on one’s health.
Vaping
Vaping can lead to bronchiolitis obliterans, also known as "popcorn lung," a lung condition that damages the small airways. This condition can make it difficult to breathe. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the culprit behind this is diacetyl, a chemical used to give popcorn its buttery flavor. It is also added to some e-liquids to evoke a buttery or creamy taste.
Recently, Dr. Andrade shared a picture of popcorn lung on TikTok to drive home her point. The move has already inspired some teens to quit vaping.
Not Sleeping for 24 Hours
"Pulling all-nighters or not sleeping for 24 hours is the same as being legally drunk," Dr. Andrade wrote. In fact, being awake for 17 hours is equivalent to having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%, while being awake for 24 hours is similar to a BAC of 0.10%. Experts recommend getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night. A recent study found that the effects of a restless night can linger on our brains for days.
Not Exercising Enough
An inactive lifestyle can raise the risk of developing several diseases, including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, colon, breast, and uterine cancers, as well as obesity, high blood pressure, and stroke. According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle strengthening a week.
Consuming Too Many Artificial Ingredients
Ultra-processed foods may taste good, but they can be bad for our bodies. Artificial ingredients and preservatives are often found in processed foods, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, depression, heart disease, heart attacks, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Conclusion
By avoiding these four bad habits, individuals can take control of their health and reduce the risk of developing serious diseases. It’s never too late to make a change and start prioritizing one’s well-being.
FAQs
Q: What is bronchiolitis obliterans?
A: Bronchiolitis obliterans, also known as "popcorn lung," is a lung condition that damages the small airways, making it difficult to breathe.
Q: How can I avoid pulling all-nighters?
A: Establish a consistent sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, and prioritize getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night.
Q: How can I get enough exercise?
A: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle strengthening a week, or try other forms of exercise that you enjoy.
Q: What are the risks of consuming too many artificial ingredients?
A: Eating too many ultra-processed foods can lead to obesity, diabetes, depression, heart disease, heart attacks, stroke, and high blood pressure.
