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When it comes to health and nutrition, it doesn’t take long to get overwhelmed by the abundance of information available. However, only some opinions are well supported by scientific research. Here are seven health and nutrition tips that are evidence-based – and trustworthy.

Tip #1: Don’t Diet

With plenty of popular diets trending on social media, it can be easy to think that a diet’s the answer to a healthier lifestyle. But that’s not the case.

Besides being ineffective, diets typically don’t last long-term and can even cause future weight gain.

Instead of dieting, do the tried and true way for weight loss: adopt a healthier lifestyle comprised of nutritional food and active living.

Tip #2: Place Importance on Your Sleep

Your body needs time to repair and rejuvenate itself – and sleep is where this happens. Although you’ll notice inadequate sleep right away in your sluggish mental and physical state, you may also be putting yourself at a higher risk for obesity and reduced resistance to insulin.

Tip #3: Avoid Unprocessed Junk Food

Although convenient, junk food offers limited (if any) nutrients – and can even cause food addiction in some people. Low in fibre and protein but high in added sugar and refined grains, junk food only provides empty calories. The same goes for sugary drinks, which are associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other health problems.

Instead of reaching for a bag of chips or chocolate bar when you’re hungry, choose real food instead. Fat rich and nutritious, nuts are incredibly healthy as are vitamin and mineral-heavy fruits and vegetables.

For beverages, stick to water. It boasts the number of calories you burn and increases metabolism.

Tip #4: Get Rid of Belly Fat

The fat in your abdominal cavity is strongly linked to metabolic disease. Do cardio, cut carbs and eat more protein and fibre to get rid of this problematic body fat.

Tip #5: Stay Social

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Social people who have close family and friends are healthier, live longer and have a better quality of life than those who do not.

Tip #6: Eat Eggs

Unlike some opinions, eggs do not affect blood cholesterol or heart disease in most people. As one of the most nutritional foods to eat, eggs are super nutritious – especially the yolk.

Tip #7: Avoid Artificial Trans Fats

Inflammation and heart disease have been linked to harmful, man-made fats, otherwise known as trans fats. Avoid as many foods as possible that contain them.

The Bottom Line

Although taking care of your health can seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be when you focus on research-based advice.

Want more advice on incorporating scientific health and nutrition tips into your lifestyle? Ask one of the professional staff members today at Brant Arts I.D.A. for more information.