Eat More... Salt?! And Other Power Hacks to Become Healthier!
28 Apr 2025Have you ever wondered why you’ve gained a couple of kilos seemingly without reason, or why you can’t resist sweet cravings? The answers to these questions may be simpler than you think, and if you listen to experts, you can change your habits and improve your life! One of those who can provide easy-to-follow health tips is Dr. James DiNicolantonio, a cardiologist and pharmacist with over 200 research papers and 3.5 million subscribers. He’s the author of books like The Longevity Solution and The Immunity Fix. His advice often goes against traditional medicine but it’s exactly what could help you figure out what’s really stopping you from feeling your healthiest!
Cook for Yourself — The Best Thing You Can Do for You
If you want to save money on restaurants and also take care of your health, it’s time to start cooking at home. Sounds basic but it’s true. Preparing food yourself gives you full control over what you’re eating, and that makes it the best investment in your health, your wallet, and your beauty.
It’s not only cheaper but way healthier than ordering something fast and greasy. For example: you won’t pour a ton of oil into your salad, because you know you only need a little to make it taste great.
Seriously, Steak and Eggs for Breakfast? Are You Normal?!
Have you ever had steak and eggs for breakfast? Not many people do, and it even sounds unusual. But you know what is considered totally normal in our society? Drinking that famous Starbucks cappuccino that contains a whopping 46 grams of sugar.
That’s already accepted as completely standard. Somehow, we’ve gotten used to it. But the question is — when does this stop being normal and start affecting your health? Try choosing something healthier instead — maybe something less hyped but homemade and packed with protein.
10,000 Steps a Day — The Key to Happiness
Here’s another simple but effective tip: walk at least 10,000 steps a day. Sounds like a lot? Actually, it’s about 8 kilometers, and if you live in a city, it’s totally doable just by walking around.
No intense workouts or expensive gym memberships needed. Walking is the best way to stay physically active and healthy overall. It not only helps you burn calories but also lifts your mood, helps you relax, and sets you up for a productive day.
The Main Thing — Lose Inches!
Have you ever thought that your workouts aren’t giving the expected results and the weight isn’t dropping, even though you’re putting in all your effort? Well, guess what? If you’re not losing weight but you are losing inches — that’s great news!
Because muscle weighs more than fat. So if your weight is staying the same but your clothes fit better and your body looks more toned — you’re on the right path.
Routine — It’s Simple But It Works!
If you want to be healthy and productive, all you need is a routine. Simple, yet hard at the same time. Be boring. Work out at the same time every day, go to bed at the same time, wake up and eat breakfast at the same time.
These simple things can make you way healthier than you might think. Consistency is the key to success. No surprises, everything is stable and predictable — and just like that, you’re already on your way to a great physical shape.
A Missed Workout Is a Step Back!
When you skip a workout, it might seem harmless — we’ve all had days when we just didn’t feel like going to the gym. But in reality, it’s not just a workout — it’s your step backward. You’re giving in to a moment of weakness.
One missed workout is not the end of the world but if there are too many of those steps, they’ll start to reflect in your results. So next time you feel lazy — remember: every time you back out, you reduce your chances of success.
The Best Things in Life Can’t Be Bought!
The very best things in life can’t be bought. It’s not expensive cars or houses but the results you get from hard work. A healthy, toned body, a happy life, a positive mindset, strong and healthy relationships — all of that is not for sale.
It’s the result of your consistent and regular efforts. You build your life with your hard work and daily actions — not by waiting for someone to bring you happiness on a silver platter.
After 30 — Only Forward
It seems like turning 30 isn’t even a big deal. But here’s the catch: from this moment on, your body starts to slowly slow down.
Each year — minus 1% of muscle mass — and this is not a joke, it’s a medical fact. You might think, so what, it’s just a little! But by the time you’re 40-45, it becomes a real difference: less strength, slower metabolism, fatigue, and slower recovery. But here’s the good news: you can turn it all to your advantage. Physical activity, especially strength training, helps maintain and even build muscle mass. Workouts become your personal elixir of youth!
Cheat Codes for Energy and Balance
We’ve all had those days when we feel like we’re running on 1% battery. And if you think the solution is just coffee or an energy drink — you’re not catching the right wave. There are simple but seriously effective life hacks.
No energy? Try drinking water with sea salt and electrolytes. It helps to replenish what’s lost through sweat, stress, and lack of sleep. Brain not working? Get up and take a walk outside — even 15 minutes can kickstart your mind better than any stimulant. Feeling stressed and anxious? Hit the gym and pick up a barbell. Strength training is one of the most powerful ways to balance hormones and release tension.
Want to Lose Weight? Go to Bed Earlier!
Sleep isn’t just “so you’re not grumpy in the morning.” It’s a direct route to a healthy weight. While you sleep, your body produces hormones that regulate appetite, metabolism, and all internal processes.
If you’re only sleeping 5–6 hours and then torturing yourself with workouts and “just cabbage salad,” the result will be zero. Your body will hold on to fat like a life jacket. Get 7–9 hours of sleep, especially if your goal is to lose weight. Sleep is the most natural, free, and powerful fat burner we have.
Your Circle Is Your Superpower
It’s really hard to grow and get better when everyone around you is eating chips and complaining about life. We absorb the mood and habits of the people we spend time with — whether we like it or not. So if you truly want to change — look at who’s next to you.
Surround yourself with people who support your goals. This doesn’t mean you have to end old friendships — but a healthy circle helps you stay on track, feel inspired, and move forward. It’s easier to go for a run, hit the gym, or talk about healthy meals when you’re not doing it alone. And when you're not alone in the wellness marathon — it’s actually fun.
Getting Older Feels Even Better When You’re Healthy
You know what’s wild? The older you get and the healthier you live — the better it all feels. Like, seriously. While some of your peers might be constantly tired, struggling with random aches, or just not feeling like themselves, you’re out here crushing workouts, sleeping like a baby, and waking up with actual energy.
It’s almost unfair how good it feels to take care of yourself. You start to notice the difference — you recover faster, your skin glows, your mood is better, your clothes fit right. People your age are complaining about “getting old,” and you’re like... “Nah, I’m just getting started.”
Have a Nap — And You’re Back in the Game
Not getting enough sleep? Don’t drag yourself to the evening like a zombie. Give yourself a 20-minute nap during the day. It’s not “being lazy,” it’s a super life hack to reset your brain and body.
Many successful and energetic people take breaks in the middle of the day — and you can too. Even if you’re in an office, find a way to just close your eyes and relax. Afterward, your productivity will skyrocket, and you won’t feel like overcooked pasta after lunch.
Become That Very 1%
Most people live on “autopilot.” But there’s that 1% — people who consciously choose to be better. They go for walks every day, even if it’s cloudy. They don’t drink every weekend without a reason. And they do morning exercise not because they “have to,” but because they care about how they feel.
Want to be part of that 1%? Just start — and don’t wait for Monday. Take a walk whenever you can and don’t get drunk at every holiday. Spending time with your family — that’s health too, by the way! And those moments create the best shared memories.
Aging Starts in the Head
Age is just a number, and getting old — that mostly happens in our minds. If you feel “tired of life” even at 27 — that’s already a red flag. But you know what’s cool? We can change that. Like we already said — it all starts in your head: how you think, what you focus on, and what goals you set.
Work on your mindset the same way you work on your body. Meditation, yoga, a gratitude journal, therapy — there are a million ways. Catch those beliefs like “I’m already old” and replace them with “I’m just getting started.” And of course, don’t forget physical activity — it synchronizes your body and your mind.
Morning Exercise — The Best Way to Start the Day
No time for a full workout? That’s okay. But start your day with a bit of movement: 5 minutes of stretching, 10 squats, a few push-ups — and boom, you’re no longer a vegetable, you’re a person. You get your blood flowing, your lymph moving, your focus locked in, and your motivation switched on. Morning movement gives you a charge that can last the whole day.
Morning exercise is like brushing your teeth but for your whole body. Do it every day without overthinking. And then you’ll be surprised how much better your energy, mood, and even appearance become.
Tasty, Healthy — And You Can Even Make Ice Cream!
If you’re looking for a snack that won’t mess up your diet — Greek yogurt is simply the best. It’s filling, rich in protein, and super satisfying.
And if you add a bit of honey, some berries, or frozen banana and toss it in the freezer — you’ve got yourself homemade ice cream without sugar or preservatives. Sounds too simple? Maybe but it works! No guilt, just joy and benefits.
30 Is Not Even an Age, and 40 Is the New 20
Seriously. If it used to feel like life went downhill after 30, now it’s the complete opposite. More and more people are hitting their best shape around 35–40. Why? Because that’s when awareness kicks in. More self-care, more exercise, proper nutrition, healthy sleep.
And you no longer want to stuff yourself at night or party until morning with alcohol. Your body says “thank you,” and you end up looking and feeling better than you did at 20. Age has nothing to do with your ID — it’s all about habits.
Food Is Killing Us — Literally
Sounds harsh but it’s a fact. According to doctors, the number one cause of death today is food. Or more specifically, junk food: sodas, processed foods, trans fats, fast food, sugar everywhere you look.
All of it leads to inflammation, extra weight, and heart problems. Cholesterol goes up, blood vessels get clogged — and we still believe that a sausage roll is a “quick lunch.” So yes, if you want to live long — start with what’s on your plate.
Magnesium Is Our Helper!
Often feel tired, can’t sleep, or get muscle cramps? It could be a magnesium deficiency. It’s essential for everything — from your nervous system to the quality of your skin. And yes, it really helps with anxiety and fatigue.
One of the most underrated micronutrients. So don’t ignore magnesium — add it to your diet or at least get your levels checked.
The Doctor Says: “The Government Recommends Harmful Things”
Dr. James DiNicolantonio isn’t shy about saying that official nutrition guidelines are a total failure. We were taught to fear meat butter, eggs, and salt. And instead, we’ve been sold vegetable oils, cereal, margarine, and vegan burgers.
But according to the doctor, it should be the other way around. Meat, eggs, a little salt — that’s fine. But processed foods and “plant-based alternatives” aren’t the solution, they’re the problem. It’s worth asking: who benefits from this swap?
Start Your Day with Water, Not Coffee
The “wake up — drink coffee” habit is automatic for a lot of people. But according to experts, it’s not the best option. After sleep, your body is dehydrated, and the first liquid it receives really matters.
If you start your morning with water and electrolytes — your brain will wake up faster, your focus will improve, and that sluggish feeling will go away. It’s like an internal shower but for your cells. Let the coffee wait until breakfast.
Going to Bed Early Is the New Adult Trend
Who would’ve thought that one day going to bed at 10 PM would be cooler than partying till sunrise? And yet, here we are: quality sleep is the new luxury, the new vibe, the new must-have. Not because we’ve “gotten old,” but because we finally get it — real joy is waking up fresh, rested, and without a soul-crushing hangover.
While someone’s still out there shouting “the night is young,” you’re already in bed, recharging, and by morning — you’re running, working, glowing. Just like an iPhone with a 100% charge.
You Are What You Eat (And It’s Not Just About People)
When a dog gets sick, the first thing a vet asks is, “What have you been feeding it?” Funny how nobody asks that about humans. Though they really should!
Food is the foundation. It can lift you up or completely wreck you. If you’re constantly tired, cranky, or out of energy — don’t rush for supplements, start with your plate. What’s on it? Sugar, cereal, pastries? Or is it protein, veggies, healthy fats, and berries?
Water Is Great but You Need Salt Too!
Even if you’re drinking 3 liters of water a day, if you’re not getting enough salt — your body might still be dehydrated. For real. Electrolyte balance matters, and without sodium, water just passes through like a ghost.
So every now and then, toss a pinch of sea salt into your water, especially after workouts or on hot days. It’s a tiny hack that actually makes a big difference.
Mini-Superfoods From the Local Store
Craving something sweet? Go for berries. They’re ridiculously good for you — packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
Raspberries, blueberries, currants, strawberries — all tiny gifts from nature that please both your body and your taste buds. Stick with it and soon this healthy snack will be your go-to, and you’ll be patting yourself on the back.
Healthy Food Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive
Seriously, forget the myths. Eating clean doesn’t mean dropping a fortune. Eggs, frozen veggies, buckwheat, chicken, cottage cheese, even seasonal fruit — all affordable and often cheaper than a burger or shawarma.
The key is planning. And realizing that “healthy food” isn’t about fancy snacks in $50 packaging — it’s about simple, real stuff that actually works.
Your Body Is Your Home
You can’t swap it out. You can’t rent a better one. You live in your body every single day. And if you spend years poisoning it with sugar, alcohol, sleep deprivation and stress — don’t be surprised when things start falling apart.
Taking care of your body isn’t about aesthetics. It’s about making life actually livable.
Don’t Fall for Diet Myths
It’s time to drop all that stuff we’ve been fed for years. Granola? Still seen as a health food but in reality it’s just dessert with a fancy label. Eggs were demonized for decades, and now even doctors admit they’re super healthy. Meat? Not the enemy — it’s a solid source of protein and iron. And fats? Can we please stop calling them villains?
Good fats like butter, fish, and avocado are essential. The less you believe those catchy slogans on food packaging, and the more you trust common sense — the healthier you’ll be.
Breakfast Like a Grown-Up
Doctors keep saying it — if you want to be healthy, stop starting your day with cereals, flakes, and sweet bars. That kind of breakfast is just a sugar bomb that’ll leave you hungry and sluggish in an hour.
Instead, fry some eggs, grab some Greek yogurt, a slice of cheese, toss in some berries. Or hey — make yourself a steak. Protein keeps you full, powers you up, and you won’t be fantasizing about snacks every 40 minutes.
Making Time for Yourself Isn’t Selfish — It’s Family Care
When you have kids, your whole world starts spinning around them. Breakfasts, classes, homework, walks… and somewhere in between — there’s you. It’s so easy to forget about yourself in all that chaos but the truth is — this is the moment when taking care of your body, your energy, your health matters more than ever.
It’s not selfish, it’s a long-term investment in your family. Because if you’re constantly sick, exhausted, or drained, how can you truly show up for your kids? A strong, healthy, energized parent is one of the best gifts a child can have. So your workout isn’t a way to escape your family — it’s a way to give them the best version of you.
You Need to Think About Health Before It’s Urgent
A lot of people live like this: “I’ll worry about my health when something goes wrong.” The only problem is… things don’t go wrong out of nowhere. A heart attack at 50 starts forming at 25. Alzheimer’s at 70 might begin developing at 40. Every meal, every night of sleep, every time you move or sit still — that’s a deposit into your future.
And you’re the one choosing what kind of deposit that is. Taking care of your health is like brushing your teeth: if you do it daily, there’s no cavity. Same goes for your body. Prevention is so much easier than fixing something that’s already broken.
Walking on an Incline
People chase after trendy workouts — burpees, jump squats, wild cardio… and meanwhile, plain old walking uphill (or on a treadmill with an incline) is one of the most effective fat-burning tools out there.
It doesn’t crush your joints, it doesn’t leave you completely wiped but it works deep into your muscles and gives real results. You don’t have to become a fitness beast — just walk uphill 30–40 minutes a day. It seriously works.
Sore Muscles? That’s Progress!
Waking up sore after strength training? That’s the kind of pain that means something — it says you showed up for yourself.
It’s totally different from the back pain you get from sitting all day or that heavy fatigue that comes from an out-of-shape body. One kind of pain builds you, the other slowly wears you down. It’s your call which one you want to live with.
Energy Comes After You Start Moving
How many times has this happened: you think, “I’m exhausted, I’ll skip today’s workout”… but then you force yourself to do it, and suddenly halfway through — boom!
You feel better, stronger, more alive. That’s because movement creates energy. Don’t wait to feel motivated. Start moving, and motivation will show up.
You Can Hack Your Happy Hormones
Your mood isn’t just random — you can actually influence it if you know how. Endorphins? Go for a run, dance it out, move your body. Dopamine? Turn on your favorite music, set tiny goals, chase things that excite you. Serotonin? Step outside, get some sunlight, hug a tree if you have to.
Even if you feel like you’ve got nothing left, you can still get yourself out of that fog — all it takes is small actions. Mood management is a skill, and like any skill, it can be trained.
Genes Aren’t a Life Sentence
A lot of people say, “Everyone in my family is overweight,” and treat it like a curse. But most of the time, it’s not about genes — it’s about habits. Eating junk, skipping movement, repeating the same lifestyle year after year… of course the results will match.
But if one person starts to shift the habits — the whole dynamic can change. Genes might give you a predisposition but they don’t determine your fate. You choose whether your weekend looks like couch-and-pizza or a podcast-fueled run through the park.
Collagen — the Underrated Superhero
Collagen isn’t just a beauty supplement. It’s crucial for everything — joints, ligaments, skin, your gut lining. After 25, your natural collagen production starts slowing down, which is exactly when you should start thinking about giving your body some support.
A good-quality collagen supplement, paired with vitamin C, helps your body stay flexible, your skin firm, and your hair full of life. Sometimes that little jar from the pharmacy? It’s not hype. It’s your quality of life in disguise.
Creatine — Is It Worth Trying?
If you haven’t added creatine to your routine yet — now’s the time to think about it. It’s not just about muscles, although yes, they really do get stronger. But creatine also boosts your brain: it improves memory, focus, and helps reduce mental fatigue.
It’s especially effective if you’re constantly stressed or doing a lot of thinking — the brain burns just as much energy as your muscles. And creatine helps both. By the way, it’s one of the most studied and safest supplements out there. It’s a true must-have, especially if you want to stay sharp — both physically and mentally.
You Are Replaceable Everywhere — Except at Home!
It sounds harsh but it’s true. At work, you’ll be replaced. Your favorite football team doesn’t even know you’re rooting for them. Colleagues will forget you, and social media won’t hug you back... But there are people who truly matter — your family.
They’re the ones you should take care of yourself for. Because if something happens to you, they’ll be the ones hurting, they’ll be the ones by your side. So taking care of your health isn’t about “gym selfies” — it’s about staying present for the ones you love for as long as possible.
If You’re an Addictive Person — Focus on the Good Stuff
If you’re someone who always needs to fixate on something — that’s not a bad thing, just choose the right thing. Instead of sugar, cigarettes, or endless scrolling, try getting “hooked” on working out, cooking healthy meals, or learning how your body actually works.
Turn your addiction into something that gives back. Let your high come from a morning run or a cold shower instead of an energy drink.
Fitness Can Literally Save You
There are days when everything sucks: your mood is down, everything is annoying, you feel like giving up. And in those moments — fitness can be your anchor. It won’t fix your problems but it’ll pull you out of the pit.
After a workout, you’re different — tired, yes but calm and strong. With a slightly clearer head! It’s honestly one of the best tools to help yourself when it feels like everything is falling apart. Move your body — and your brain will start to move in the right direction too.
Sauna — Your Secret Weapon for Longevity
Seriously, there’s a study that shows if you go to the sauna 4–7 times a week, your risk of dying from a heart attack drops by almost 50%!
And it’s not just about your heart — sauna boosts your immune system, improves recovery after workouts, and reduces stress. It’s like meditation but warm. So yes, regular sauna time isn’t indulgence — it’s actual self-care.
Dunkin’ Donuts Isn’t Food — It’s Just Candy
Basically, when you walk into Dunkin’, you’re not buying breakfast or a snack — you’re stepping into a candy store. Because the donuts they sell aren’t pastries, they’re just sugar in a pretty glaze.
One of those “fluffy” donuts can contain a huge amount of sugar. More than a chocolate bar. And if that’s your daily routine — no wonder your energy crashes, your mood dips, and your body begs for mercy.
Fake Superfoods vs Real Ones
We live in a world where kale, soy, and plant-based burgers suddenly became “superfoods.” But the truth is, most of this trendy food is just marketing. Whole grain cereals, soy meat, “healthy” snack bars — they’re not that great, especially if you check the ingredients.
Real superfoods are often forgotten: liver, heart, wild salmon, eggs, quality meat. They’re full of actual nutrients, fat-soluble vitamins, protein, iron, zinc, B12. Everything your body truly needs — not just what fills your stomach.
These Are the Real Healthy Oils
Among hundreds of bottles on the shelf, there are only a few worth your attention: extra virgin olive oil, black seed oil, and cod liver oil. These actually do good for your body — from brain to skin.
The rest, especially cheap vegetable oils like corn, soybean, sunflower — are overheated, oxidized, and cause more harm than good. If you want to care for your body — start with the fats you put into it.
A Sleep Hack That Actually Works
Want better sleep? No pills needed! Just stick to the basics: go to bed at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends), cut caffeine after noon, and skip heavy meals at least two hours before bed. It’s simple but powerful!
Biology loves routine — especially when it comes to sleep. And the better you sleep, the better everything is: hormones, weight, mood, recovery, immune system.
Craving Sweet Things? And A Simple Hack to Stop It!
Everyone knows that sweets are not only delicious but also unhealthy, and if you don’t limit your intake, you can easily gain weight. So, what’s really behind our craving for sugar? The simple answer is insulin. When we eat a lot of carbs, including sweets, the level of insulin in our blood spikes, which triggers fat storage. One of the ways to tame this craving is to drink salty water with electrolytes!
Yes, it sounds strange but salt helps to balance your electrolytes and can help reduce your desire for sugar. You can even practice just putting a bit of salt on your tongue or drink water with lemon juice. And sugar? It’s out! Less sugar, less fat.
Sleep Is More Important Than Your Workout
This might not be what you want to hear but if you’re choosing between “hitting the gym” and “getting good sleep” — choose sleep.
Because without sleep, your body doesn’t recover, your muscles won’t grow, fat won’t burn, and your mood won’t improve. Sleep is recovery, hormone balance, brain detox. And without it, even the best workout just becomes more stress.
Hunger Doesn’t Mean You Need to Run to the Kitchen
A slight feeling of hunger is normal. You don’t need to sprint to the fridge every time your stomach growls. We are not supposed to eat every two hours. Constant snacking keeps your body from ever entering fat-burning mode, and your insulin just keeps spiking like crazy.
It’s better to eat solid meals 2–3 times a day, with a good mix of protein, fats, and fiber — and forget about food in between. Your body will quickly adapt to this rhythm and thank you with steady energy.