Do this and do not do that, it is bad for your health. Living a healthy life can be such a hassle with too many dos and don’ts that one finds it hard to keep up.

A new year has just started and it is a good opportunity to start living a healthy life. It is time to say goodbye to certain things which can lead you to an early grave.

If you want to stay healthy throughout the year, there are certain health mistakes you should avoid. Avoid them and you will find yourself feeling healthier than ever.

1. Not getting enough sleep

We live in a society where people work and work and work and do not have enough time to sleep. The little time they have to sleep, they use it to study or have fun. There are health reasons why your body needs adequate sleep. Sleep plays a critical role in thinking and learning and lack of it may have both short- and long-term consequences. There is a price to pay for not getting enough sleep.

2. Not drinking enough water

Not drinking enough water can be a big problem. It is very important to always stay hydrated. Do not wait until you are thirsty before you drink water. If you're feeling thirsty you're already dehydrated. That headache you are having could be a symptom of being dehydrated so drinking water should make it go away. Sip small amounts throughout the day to stay hydrated.

3. Addiction to your devices

There are some people who cannot stay away from their devices for a minute. You may not know, but using your gadgets excessively can have a negative effect on your health. This includes your phones, tablets, computer, television and others. Did you know that watching too much television can kill you? This year, you need to take a break. Stop the excessive use of gadgets.

4. Over exercising

Too much of anything is bad. We all know exercise is good for the body but, when you overdo it, it becomes bad for your health. Too much exercise can lead to injuries, exhaustion and depression. It can leave some people more at risk of heart rhythm problems - known medically as arrhythmias. Exercise but do not over do it.

5. Choosing the internet over the doctor

Sure, you can learn a lot from the internet, but when it comes to certain health issues, it is wise you consult your doctor. Anybody can post anything on the internet so you cannot swallow everything hook, line and sinker. If you feel you are having any kind of health challenge please see a doctor instead of following instructions you find on the internet.

6. Ignoring health warning signs

If you notice anything out of place or feel like something strange is happening in your body system, please visit a doctor. This year, pay more attention to your health. Do not ignore any health warning signs. Identifying problems early helps a lot and can save your life.

7. Skipping meals

You did not have time to eat breakfast, you worked through lunch and you got home tired in the evening and went straight to bed. Keep the meal-skipping thing up and you may be headed for trouble. Skipping meals regularly, especially breakfast can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This year, be determined not to skip your meals, especially breakfast which is very important.

8. Excessive alcohol intake and smoking

It is no news that smoking is dangerous to the health and so is drinking. There are so many diseases linked to smoking such as throat cancer, mouth cancer, bladder cancer, lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and heart disease. Also, drinking too much can have a toll on your health.

9. Allowing stress to take over

The rate at which people slump and die these days is quite alarming. In all that you do this year, do not allow stress to take over your life if you do not want to be one of them. For the sake of your health, take things easy this year.