Simple Health Hacks for Women

Being a healthy, fit human is an ongoing challenge for most of us. That's hardly a news flash to the average woman whose multitasking life leaves little time for focusing on her own health and fitness.

While there are no shortcuts to achieving stellar health and fitness, every little step in that direction is a good thing. That's why ATRIO Health Plans is supporting National Women's Health & Fitness Day – Sept. 27 – by sharing a smorgasbord of simple, health hacks.

Edible Hacks

• Curb cravings – If you're craving a not-so-healthy snack (chips and candy come to mind) keep 100-calorie portions of said snacks in baggies at work as well as home; once the baggie is empty, your craving should be curbed.

• Drink lemon water – Start your day by squeezing half a fresh lemon into a glass of lukewarm water. This uncomplicated combination aids in digestion, regularity, and destroys bad bacteria.

• Pour a glass of cherries – Not only does cherry juice taste like liquified cherry pie, but it packs a nutrient-rich punch, promotes heart health, and also delivers antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory agents.

• Smell an orange – If your stress level is soaring, smell an orange; seriously. Several studies have shown that the scent of oranges can reduce stress, elevate mood, and stimulate alertness. Dabbing on orange oil can produce similar outcomes.

• Avoid an empty stomach – Parties can be food-temptation danger zones, so the key is to not arrive hungry. Instead, as you're getting ready, munch on a cup or two of raw veggies, which will prevent stomach growling and poor food choices. Similarly, never go grocery shopping on an empty stomach.

• Rise and eat – To maximize its metabolizing impact, breakfast should be consumed within 30 minutes of waking up.

Exercise Hacks

• Build muscles while blow drying – Considering that many women spend 15 minutes to half an hour blow drying their hair, why not simultaneously strengthen your muscles? Before grabbing the blow dryer, strap one- to three-pound weights around your wrists and start styling.

• Work in deskercises – The medical dangers of prolonged sitting, which millions of Americans do daily while working, include: obesity; type 2 diabetes; cardiovascular disease; and some cancers. Just because you're stuck behind a desk, doesn't mean you can't tone your abs and invigorate tired legs. Sitting up straight with feet flat on the floor, tightly squeeze ab muscles. Extend one leg until it is at hip level; hold for 10 seconds, and then lower leg slowly. Repeat 15 times before switching legs.

• Bribe yourself – Finding the time and motivation to workout is no small task, so why not start bribing yourself. Here's how it works. Every time you complete a home workout routine or when you return from the gym, drop a dollar or two in an empty jar. When the jar is bursting with bills, it's time to reap the rewards of your dedication to fitness.

There's no time like the present to get hacking and get healthy.

Resources:

http://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/2014/09/30/10-healthy-life-hacks-every-woman-should-know.html

https://www.realbuzz.com/articles-interests/health/article/5-health-hacks-for-women/

http://stylecaster.com/beauty/life-hacks-that-will-make-you-healthier/