5 common health mistakes you are making !

You may be surprised at just how many 'innocent' habits and routines could, in fact, be doing you harm.

Using the mobile before bed

Why it's bad: Radiation from cellphones can cause insomnia and headaches, according to Swedish scientists. They found people who used their mobiles before bed took longer to reach the deep-sleep stages, essential for cell rejuvenation and repair. Simple solution: Use your landline for bedtime calls and don't keep your mobile on your bedside table, advises Dr Chris Idzikowski, director of the Edinburgh Sleep Centre. 

Brushing teeth after meals

Why it's bad: "While you should brush teeth twice a day for two minutes, you shouldn't brush after meals," says Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation. "The sugar in food reacts with plaque to create acid, which softens tooth enamel — so brushing straight after meals can actually do more harm than good." Simple solution: "Wait an hour after eating and brush your teeth before you have breakfast as this will prevent dental erosion by coating the teeth with fluoride," advises Dr Carter. Chew sugar-free gum to freshen your breath after meals.

Worrying about your weight

Why it's bad: It's good to keep your weight at a healthy level, but obsessing about a few kilos won't do you any good. "Body mass index doesn't take into account the amount of muscle or where the fat is," says Dr David Haslam, the National Obesity Forum's clinical director. "Many athletes are classed as overweight when in fact they have a low amount of body fat. Some people may have a healthy BMI but have a lot of abdominal fat and be at serious risk of health problems." Simple solution: Concentrate on waist measurement instead and aim to keep it below 80cm, advises Dr Haslam. This reduces risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Carrying a heavy handbag

Why it's bad: Big bags are bad news. "Carrying a heavy load on one side causes an imbalance in the muscular structure, triggering neck, shoulder and back problems," warns Danny Williams, council member of the British Osteopathic Association. Simple solution: "Distribute weight across the body with a cross-body shoulder bag rather than carrying it on one shoulder," says Williams. Buy small bags.

Starting the day with warm water and lemon

Why it's bad: It may be a great detox but dentists say it's a mistake. "Hot water and lemon is corrosive to your teeth," warns Dr Mervyn Druian from The London Centre for Cosmetic Surgery. Simple solution: "It's better to drink peppermint tea as it works to strengthen tooth enamel," says Dr Druian.