When it comes to our daily routines, many of us have habits that we don’t think twice about.

From reaching for a soda to skipping breakfast, we repeat these actions without considering the long-term impact they may have on our health and well-being. Here are ten seemingly innocent daily habits that may surprise you with their negative effects.

1. Sitting for Too Long

It’s easy to get caught up in work or binge-watching a new show, but sitting for extended periods can be detrimental to your health.

Sitting for more than six hours a day has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. To combat this, it’s essential to make sure you’re getting enough movement throughout the day. Take a break and go for a walk, or try standing while you work.

2. Sleeping with Your Phone Nearby

Many of us sleep with our phones right beside us, but this habit can be detrimental to our sleep quality. The blue light from the screen can disrupt our natural sleep cycle, leading to poor sleep quality that can affect our overall health.

To make sure you’re getting the best rest possible, it’s a good idea to leave your phone in another room while you sleep.

3. Using Too Much Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is an excellent tool for keeping germs at bay, but using too much can backfire. The active ingredient in hand sanitizer, alcohol, can dry out your skin, leading to irritation and even cracking.

When these cracks occur, it makes it easier for germs to enter your body, making you more vulnerable to illness. Make sure to use hand sanitizer in moderation and moisturize after use.

4. Skipping Breakfast

Many of us rush out the door in the morning without taking the time to eat breakfast, but this habit can be detrimental to our overall health. Skipping breakfast can lead to overeating later in the day and can cause us to make unhealthy food choices.

Make sure to take the time to fuel your body in the morning with a healthy breakfast to set yourself up for success.

5. Drinking Soda

It’s no secret that sugary drinks like soda can lead to weight gain and other health issues, but many of us still indulge in this habit. Too much soda can lead to tooth decay, diabetes, and other health problems.

To stay healthy, it’s essential to limit your consumption of sugary drinks and opt for healthier alternatives like water or unsweetened tea instead.

6. Forgetting to Floss

Flossing isn’t the most exciting part of your oral hygiene routine, but it’s essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Failing to floss can lead to gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues.

Make sure to floss at least once a day to help keep your mouth healthy and happy.

7. Using a Cotton Swab to Clean Your Ears

It’s tempting to use a cotton swab to clean your ears, but this habit can cause more harm than good. Inserting a cotton swab into your ear canal can push wax further into your ear, potentially causing an infection.

It’s best to avoid using cotton swabs altogether and let your ears clean themselves naturally. If you do need to clean your ears, consult with a medical professional to find a safe and effective method.

8. Eating Too Quickly

Many of us rush through meals, but this habit can negatively impact our digestion and overall health. Eating too quickly can lead to overeating, indigestion, and other digestive issues.

Make sure to take the time to chew your food and savor your meals to promote healthy digestion and overall wellness.

9. Holding in Sneezes

It can be tempting to hold in a sneeze, but this habit can potentially be dangerous. When we try to hold in a sneeze, it can put pressure on our nasal passages, ears, and throat, potentially causing harm.

Instead of holding in a sneeze, try to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow to protect those around you.

10. Not Wearing Sunscreen

The dangers of UV rays are well-known, but many of us still forget to apply sunscreen when we head outside. Skimping on sunscreen can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer.

Make sure to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before heading out into the sun to protect your skin.