by Kimberly Schiller

Created on: April 30, 2010   Last Updated: May 05, 2010

It can be hard to keep track of what you're supposed to be doing to stay healthy. It seems like the news changes every day! The key is not to jump on every fad, but to make basic changes to your everyday lifestyle. Focus on principles of good health that have stood the test of time. Here are ten daily habits to help ensure a healthy life.

*Get your Zs

While you are asleep, your body is making repairs, resting, and processing memories. Recent studies are showing that people who don't get enough sleep have weakened immune systems, a tendency to store fat, and memory and learning difficulty. Drowsiness is also one of the top reasons for car accidents and work related injuries. Most adults need 7 or 8 hours of sleep; if you have a tough time waking up in the morning, then you need more sleep.

*Eat breakfast

When you wake up in the morning, you're running on empty. If you don't eat something, it's like trying to drive your car with no gas. Your body protects itself by slowing down your metabolism, hoarding whatever energy it might have. Then you eat a big lunch, and your slow metabolism starts storing it as fat instead of using it for energy. Eating a balanced breakfast of protein, carbs, and a little fat will keep you eating healthier all day and your blood sugar and energy level stable.

Not hungry in the AM? That's because your body is used to being neglected. Stop eating earlier at night, and ease into the habit by having at least a little something when you wake up.

*Schedule time for exercise

Working out is one of those things that you always intend to do but end up running out of time in the day. Folks who work out regularly are slimmer and have better energy, immune systems, and cardiovascular health. So it's too important to leave to chance. Schedule it into your week just like work meetings, grocery shopping, and play dates. Once you get into the habit, this won't be necessary, because you'll remember how much better you feel when you're fit.

*Those pearly whites

It's not clear why, but people with healthy teeth seem to have healthier bodies. The leading theory is that the same stuff that causes dental plaque also causes other problems throughout your system. Regardless, who wants to deal with root canals and dentures if they don't have to? Brush at least twice a day and floss once. If you can't brush after eating, swish some water around in your mouth or chew sugarless gum. Eating crunchy produce, drinking tea, and eating yogurt also helps to strengthen

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