6 healthy life hacks

Drink more water, eat breakfast and move more – all familiar health tips that, in reality, are easier said than done. It’s hard to cram busy schedules, healthy habits – oh, and sleep, into 24 hours. Here are some simple tricks from HCA experts that can make being healthy easy and fast. 

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day – it boosts your metabolism and prevents you from overeating throughout the day. Don’t skip it just because you’re pressed for time. Here is one breakfast idea you can take to go.
 

“I like to make green smoothies. My favorite one – it’s not really green – has half a beet, carrots, dates and coconut milk. It’s really yummy.”

— Rosemary Thuet, MSN, RN

Get more smoothie recipes.

Don’t like veggies? Do what these experts do to eat more.
 

“I like hummus, and it’s good to put on anything you don’t really care for – like carrots and celery. You can slather it on any vegetable and knock it back.” — Matthew Brengman, MD

“One of my all-time favorite foods is red sauce and pasta. And, man, you can sneak a lot of vegetables into red sauce!” 
— Leann Heise, MS, RD

Don’t have the time (or patience) to do crossword puzzles? Here’s one thing that can challenge your brain.
 

“For fun, I use Clockwork Brain app. It’s an enjoyable little way to possibly stave off dementia.” — Taral Patel, MD

Always be prepared for an emergency no matter where you are. Keep a first aid kit in your car, purse or gym bag.
 

“My first aid kit is stocked with medicines like Tylenol and Motrin, and I keep antiseptic solution and Band-Aids on hand if anyone in my family gets a cut or minor abrasion.” — Pooja Desai, MD
 

Learn what else to keep in your first aid kit.

If you struggle to drink enough water each day, here’s a trick you can use to help you stay hydrated.

“I try to make myself drink an 8 ounce glass of water after I brush my teeth in the morning and night. It’s two opportunities where you’re already drinking water and can just go ahead and throw it in.” — Catherine Holly, MPH RD, LN

Find out if you really need eight glasses of water a day? 

If your job keeps you so busy you barely have time to run to the bathroom let alone go to lunch, do what these experts do.
 

“I make a quick protein shake in the office in between patients. It helps curb my appetite & keeps my energy up. I also stock the office fridge with different fruits & veggies for everyone to snack on.” — Guita Tabassi, DO of Southern Hills Hospital

“I go for walks or take quick five-minute brisk walks whenever possible. I never skip lunch and avoid eating at my desk whenever possible.”
— Leah Roberts, RD of Twin Cities Hospital 

Learn how to stay healthy at work.