9 Unusual Health Lessons from a Nurse: What Not To Do

I am a nurse, and I have unique health lessons to share that go against mainstream advice.

I am 43 years old and my height is 5 feet 11 inches or 178cm. My weight is 70 kg and my BMI is 22, indicating that I am healthy. Despite my age, I have no wrinkles and look better than I did in my younger days. I believe that this is mainly because of the lessons I have learned about health over the years.

I have experimented a lot to achieve health and happiness through my experiences and education.

I have observed my patients while they were sick and also while they improved, and in doing so, I discovered the secrets of better health.

I then applied these secrets to myself and Voila!, I have since become a healthier version of myself.

You wouldn’t expect these health lessons from a random nurse because they go against mainstream advice.

Don’t do only 1/2 hour of exercise

I disagree with the doctor’s recommendation of only 30 minutes of daily movement for good health and weight management. In my professional and personal experience, you need to move more than that.

When I moved to Spain, I noticed that despite having lost weight earlier, I was able to maintain it for several years because of the constant walking and movement throughout the day.

I’m sorry, but simply following the 10,000 steps mantra is not enough. I walk around the farm for 4–5 hours a day as part of my light exercise routine.

A healthy lifestyle requires more than 30 minutes of exercise if you spend a lot of time sitting.

Don’t Follow FAD Diets

In my experience, FAD diets are not effective and result usually in a cycle of losing weight and then gaining it back. I don’t even know if it even worked on anyone.

Following most fad diets can lead to missing out on essential nutrients and vitamins, resulting in potential harm to your health. Instead, change your lifestyle and eat wholesome foods, cooked at home. And a very important is not to snack during the day to keep your weight down.

In Spain, I don’t snack like I did in America. I only have breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If I get hungry in between, I only have water or seasonal fruit.

I never have snacks.

Don’t visit a doctor or ER but don’t ignore symptoms either

Don’t always believe in doctors and medications. They are not a cure-all for everything. Do your own research, and learn about nutrition and lifestyle changes that you can make to improve your health instead of relying on medications alone.

Western medicine doctors are only trained for 2 things: drugs or surgery.

Before seeking medical attention, consider exploring alternative solutions or making lifestyle changes. However, if you have a serious or chronic condition, it is important to consult with your GP.

Nonetheless, don’t forget to inquire about alternative options with your doctor.

Please only go to the emergency room for serious conditions such as chest pain, abdominal pain, or severe injuries.

Do not go for minor issues like a cut finger or mild discomfort.

It would be better to go to an Urgent Care facility instead of the ER because at the ER you may have to wait for hours just to receive Tylenol and a high bill.

Don’t spend too much time indoors

Spending time in nature and being outdoors can significantly benefit your mental well-being.

In my case, living off the grid and being outdoors most of the time has helped me become calmer, reduced my anxiety, and improved my sleep quality.

Moreover, I am able to dedicate more time to meditation and self-reflection.

Having no pet

I have always felt happier and more content whenever I had a dog or cat as a pet. I cannot imagine my life without them.

Pets have had a positive impact on my mental and physical health, as studies even indicate that children who grow up with animals have stronger immune systems and fewer allergies.

Don’t eat carbs for breakfast

I start my day with high protein breakfast because then throughout the day, I feel less hungry, no need to snack, and I don’t get the sugar rush. Also, try protein and vegetables in the morning. It’s the best way to start the day.

I know that it is not a popular opinion, but I would say that carbs for breakfast are not ideal for weight management or good health. Your pancreas will thank you later, too.

Don’t stop communicating with each other

Studies have shown that due to digital technology addictions, 85% of American families don’t communicate with each other at home.

To ensure that we stay connected, we make it a point to have 2–3 hours of lunch or dinner every day where we catch up on things. This is the Spanish way.

Don’t smoke recreational marijuana

As a nurse, I have observed that marijuana is an addictive substance that can have negative effects on your mental health. While some people may view it as a harmless way to relax, it can be a gateway drug that leads to further substance abuse.

As a recreational drug, marijuana use has been linked to increased anxiety and depression, impaired memory and cognitive functioning, an increased risk of addiction, and lower IQ levels in users under the age of 25.

In addition, it can impact your heart health, increase the likelihood of experiencing a stroke, and, similar to smoking, is associated with the development of cancer.

FYI: If you search on Google, you will come across numerous studies that have been conducted and illustrate the associated risks.

Anyway, if you are feeling stressed or anxious, I would recommend looking into CBD oils instead as they have been proven to reduce stress levels without any side effects.

Being high through drug usage is not a healthy way to cope with life, much like someone who drinks heavily every night.

Don’t be a follower or copy others

You are unique and should not be a copy of anyone else. Understand that you have your own needs and make them the priority.

Select a lifestyle that reflects your own values, rather than conforming to societal norms or the actions of others.

For me, living a simple life without a career or ambitions in the Spanish mountains and living off the grid brings me contentment and fulfillment.

Don’t use someone else’s methods. Instead, do your own research and experiment to find the best health and wellness plan for you.

That is why, you have the option to either ignore my recommendations or try them out to determine if they are effective.