Lifestyle

5 Unhealthy Things You Do At Home That You've Probably Never Thought About

by Imani Brammer

When you're in your own home, in your own space, that is when you are at your most comfortable. So, chances are, you're probably doing a whole bunch of sh*t that you wouldn't necessarily do in public, because no one sees you. Though your routine may be normal to you, you may be surprised to know some of your normal habits at home are actually pretty unhealthy for you.

I know, it seems like everything is bad for you these days, right? But, I promise, it's not all that serious -- you and your body deserve nothing but the best, though, right?

Here are a few unhealthy habits you and I are probably both guilty of doing in the comfort of our own homes. But, hear me out, these can all easily be remedied.

1. You Cook with Spray Can Oils That Are Loaded With Chemicals

If you actually took the time to read the ingredients on the back of that can of cooking spray you use every day, you'd see just how many chemicals it's loaded with, and how many of them you're ingesting as a result.

One of those chemicals found in spray can oil is diacetyl, which is responsible for that buttery flavor you love so much. As delicious as it is, diacetyl has been linked to abnormal lung function, and possibly lung cancer.

If you're looking for a healthier way to cook your food, try lemon juice. If not that, use a non-stick pan and allow the sauces that are already apart of your recipe to coat the bottom of the pan. The sauce provides your food with moisture, and the non-stick pan solves the whole sticking-to-the-pan issue.

2. You Don't Leave Your House Enough

If you're staying in your house all day, that's a problem.

You're a human being. You need fresh air; you need interaction; you need to see that a world exists outside your own home.

I don't know about you, but exploring, sight-seeing, and having face-to-face interactions with other people, are just a few of many things that really make life worth living.

Get out of the house. Ride your bike. Go for a walk, even if it's just up the block and back. Fresh air awakens the senses and does wonders for your mood.

3. You Use Your Sleep Space For Your Work Space

Of course, this is especially important to take note of if you work from home on a regular basis.

When you work from home, it's easy to slip into feelings of loneliness, and possibly even depression, and you may start to feel an overwhelming sense of confinement or suffocation.

Honestly, there is such a sense of relief that comes with working outside your house. You can really appreciate the comfort and relaxation of your home when it's not associated with the stresses of work.

If you work remotely, do what you can to separate your relaxed spaces from your work spaces. This means your laptop should stay out of the bedroom, and if you can, try to find a local coffee shop or restaurant where you can do your work, so no part of your home is tied into that work-related tension.

4. You Use Plastic Containers Instead of BPA Free Containers

If you're into the meal-prepping lifestyle, then keep in mind the containers you put your food into are just as important as the food itself.

This is because plastic containers can potentially pose a significant risk to your health. Plastic containers contain Bisphenol-A (BPA), which is a chemical often added to most plastics to make them more durable. However, BPA has been shown to have a similar effect to estrogen when ingested, which can lead to unbalanced hormone levels.

Instead, opt for BPA-free containers, or even better, glass containers.

5. You Aren't Washing Your Fruits And Vegetables

If there's anything you need to remember, please let it be that pesticides freaking exist, and they are no good for you or your body.

When you eat that handful of grapes straight out of the container, you're consuming the pesticides, the bacteria, and the germs that come with it.

Remember, not only are fruits and veggie sprayed with pesticides, but they also drop on the floor and go through a whole load of other gross sh*t before they find their way into your local grocery store.

I'm somewhat of a germaphobe, so I usually opt for this fruit and veggie wash from Trader Joe's, which clears the pesticides and cleans your produce in no time.

Keep in mind, you're making these changes for no one other than yourself. You deserve the best, so commit to change, no matter how small.