10 Common Health Mistakes Women Make Before 40 (And How They Impact Your Future in Nigeria)

The health and well-being of women are vital for societal progress. However, research indicates a concerning rise in chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and hypertension among people starting in their late 40s. Often, the seeds for these later-life health issues are sown earlier. Recognizing and avoiding common health mistakes women make before 40 is crucial for building a foundation for long-term health and vitality.

Prioritizing health is a lifelong journey, but the habits formed before midlife can be particularly impactful. Let’s explore 10 common health mistakes women make before 40, specifically considering the Nigerian context.

1. Not drinking enough water

Not drinking enough water is a common health mistake that some Nigerian women may make before they reach the age of 40. When you don’t drink enough water, your body becomes dehydrated, which means that it doesn’t have enough water to carry out its normal functions. Dehydration can cause a range of health problems, including dry mouth and throat, headaches and dizziness, fatigue and weakness, constipation, and kidney problems.

2. Neglecting regular exercise

Neglecting regular exercise is a common health mistake that some Nigerian women may make before they reach the age of 40. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health and preventing a range of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. When you neglect regular exercise, you miss out on the many health benefits that come with being physically active, such as improving your cardiovascular health, strengthening your muscles and bones, and boosting your mood and mental health.

3. Not getting enough sleep

Sleep is essential for the body to repair and recharge itself, and not getting enough of it can have negative effects on physical and mental health. Chronic sleep deprivation can increase the risk of several health issues, including obesity, diabetes, depression, and heart disease. Inadequate sleep can also affect cognitive function and emotional wellbeing, leading to mood swings, irritability, and decreased productivity.

4. Ignoring mental health

Ignoring mental health can also lead to physical health problems, as chronic stress and other mental health issues have been linked to a range of health problems, including heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. it’s important for Nigerian women to prioritize their mental health and seek out appropriate care and support when needed. This can include therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, mindfulness, and stress-reduction techniques. By prioritizing mental health, Nigerian women can improve their overall health and wellbeing, and enjoy a better quality of life.

5. Eating too much junk food

Diets high in junk food can lead to poor digestion, low energy levels, and a weakened immune system, making the body more susceptible to illnesses and infections. The accessibility and affordability of junk food, combined with busy lifestyles, can make it challenging for some Nigerian women to maintain a healthy diet. However, it’s important for women to make an effort to eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

6. Not getting regular checkups

This is one of the most critical common health mistakes women make before 40. Regular medical check-ups and screenings are important for detecting and preventing health problems, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, before they become serious. Delaying or avoiding routine medical care can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can lead to more severe health problems down the line. Some Nigerian women may delay or avoid routine medical check-ups and screenings due to a lack of access to affordable healthcare, fear or stigma around certain health issues, or simply not prioritizing their own health. However, it’s important to prioritize routine medical care as part of a healthy lifestyle.

7. Smoking or using tobacco

Tobacco (usually found in shisha)  use is a major risk factor for a range of health problems, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses. It can also increase the risk of reproductive problems, such as infertility, miscarriage, and premature birth. Some women may start smoking or using tobacco due to social pressures, stress, or a lack of awareness about the health risks. It’s important for women to understand the risks associated with tobacco use and to avoid smoking or using tobacco products altogether.

8. Drinking too much alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can have a range of negative effects on the body, including damage to the liver, pancreas, and other organs, as well as an increased risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and certain cancers. In Nigeria, alcohol consumption among women is often stigmatized, which can make it challenging for some women to seek help if they are struggling with alcohol use. However, it’s important for women to be aware of the potential risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption and to seek out appropriate support if needed.

9. Skin Bleaching

The use of skin-lightening or bleaching creams is a common practice among some Nigerian women, but it can have several negative consequences on their health. These creams contain various chemicals that reduce melanin and can lead to a lighter skin tone, but they can also cause skin damage, increase the risk of skin cancer, disrupt hormonal balance, and even kidney failures. It’s important for Nigerian women to be aware of the potential risks associated with skin lightening and avoid these harmful chemicals

10. Not using protection during sex

Unprotected sex can lead to the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. These infections can have serious health consequences, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and an increased risk of certain cancers.

Additionally, unprotected sex can lead to unintended pregnancy, which can have significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts. By using protection during sex, women can reduce their risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Building a Healthier Future, Starting Now

Avoiding these common health mistakes women make before 40 is an investment in your future self. By prioritizing hydration, exercise, sleep, mental health, nutrition, regular check-ups, and safe practices regarding substances, skin, and sex, Nigerian women can significantly reduce their risk of chronic diseases and improve their overall quality of life for decades to come.

Taking proactive steps is key. To understand your current health baseline and identify any potential risks early, regular health check-ups are invaluable.

Ensure your optimal health. Book a comprehensive health check-up test with Healthtracka today. It is reliable, affordable, and conveniently done at home.

Reference

World Health Organization. (2021). The top 10 causes of death. [Online] Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/the-top-10-causes-of-death [Accessed: 18 February 2023].

American Cancer Society. (2022). Breast cancer facts & figures. [Online] Available at: https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/breast-cancer-facts-figures.html [Accessed: 18 February 2023].

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). HIV surveillance report, 2019. [Online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/library/reports/hiv-surveillance/vol-31/index.html [Accessed: 18 February 2023].

American Heart Association. (2022). High blood pressure. [Online] Available at: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure [Accessed: 18 February 2023].

Mayo Clinic. (2022). Type 2 diabetes. [Online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20351193 [Accessed: 18 February 2023].