Our health is arguably the most important factor to our income. First, because the healthier we are the less money we spend on astronomical healthcare costs. Second, because the most valuable asset we have is our earning potential. If we're not healthy, then we lose our potential to earn.
A TD Bank survey also found a link between health and money. They found that the better their finances the healthier people tend to be. The opposite can also be true in so far as the healthier we are the more money we make.
That's why it's imperative to take matters into our own hands when it comes to our health. But believe it or not, it doesn't necessarily take massive changes to make a difference. Even small changes can make a big impact that can help us stay in shape and save us money.
Switch to a Filtered Water Pitcher
In 2013 it was reported that up to 75% of Americans suffer from chronic dehydration. Most people aren't getting the recommended 10 cups of water a day. They also aren't aware of less commonly known dehydration symptoms like hunger or moodiness. To make matters worse, in the U.S. we're prone to drinking beverages that are mildly dehydrating such as coffee and soda.
Water is necessary for the body to absorb vitamins and nutrients. Lack of fluids also drives up our blood sugar, can lead to faintness and in extreme cases lead to death. The best way to combat all of this, and make sure that coffee doesn't dehydrate you even more, is to get in the habit of drinking more water.
Rather than buying bottled water, which can run you about $2,000 a year if you're drinking the recommended amount, consider getting a filtered water pitcher. The filters only need to be replaced every 40 gallons and they are very economical at $5. For $25 you'd be able to get your recommended dosage of water for an entire year.
Try Smoking Alternatives
The CDC reports that there are still 41.2 million cigarette smokers in the U.S. Cigarette smoking also kills almost 500,000 people a year and is the single largest preventable cause of death. Quitting smoking is a huge feat, but there are options available now that are less expensive and can help you take baby steps toward kicking the habit.
When nicotine patches and going cold turkey don't work, many people have found themselves looking for smoking alternatives like vaping. While the jury is still out on the long-term effects this has on health, HealthDay Reporter reported on studies that show how the benefits of vaping may outweigh the risks. Additionally, we also know it's cheaper in the long run when compared to buying a pack of smokes every time you run out of cigarettes.
Don't Drive As Much
Simple things like walking or biking when you need to go somewhere can help us lose weight and stay active. For instance, if you need to go to your local pharmacy that's just a few blocks away why not just walk there?
According to the American Heart Association, walking for 30 minutes a day can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, reduce the risk of osteoporosis, improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of some cancers such as breast and colon cancer.
As an added bonus, walking helps you save money on gas. While you may not be able to get rid of your car completely, you can still decide to walk sometimes instead.
These three tweaks not only help you stay healthy, they also help you save money almost immediately. They are also simple enough where you'll be less likely to fall off the wagon.