The bad habits that can be GOOD FOR YOU

Embrace your guilty pleasures they might just be your secret weapon

Can’t keep still? Occasionally give the shower a miss? We all have ‘bad’ habits that can make us feel a little ashamed. But, in reality, some of them might actually boost our health. ‘Of course, habits such as smoking aren’t good for you, but others depend on where and when you perform them,’ says hypnotherapist and occupational psychologist Jivan Dempsey*. This is what determines their positive or negative impact. Intrigued? It’s time to wave goodbye to guilt and uncover the positives to these pesky habits...

Fidgeting

You were probably told off for not sitting still as a child, but foot tappers and thumb twiddlers are actually just getting a workout. Yes, fidgeting is, in fact, NEAT – that’s non-exercise activity thermogenesis. In basic terms, that’s any calorie-burning activity that’s not eating, sleeping or exercise. Experts reveal those who fidget burn up to 350 calories a day – ideal if you’re sofa-bound for most of it.

Chewing gum

Doing it before performing a cognitive task increases blood oxygen levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus – key brain structures involved in learning and memory. Chewing gum boosts thinking and alertness, plus it can also keep saliva flowing. This can stop cavities forming in our teeth and prevent bad breath, says Dr Raha Sepehrara, principal dentist at Dental Suite. Just choose sugar-free gum.