Six Things to Avoid in Daily Living
Morning smoking is discouraged. Upon waking, metabolism has not yet returned to normal levels, and breathing rate is slow, with higher carbon dioxide buildup in the body. Smoking at this time causes bronchial spasms due to irritation, obstructing carbon dioxide expulsion and leading to symptoms such as chest tightness, dizziness, and fatigue.
Drinking milk on an empty stomach is not recommended. Milk proteins must be digested into amino acids in the stomach and small intestine before absorption. On an empty stomach, gastric emptying is rapid, so proteins are excreted into the large intestine before being absorbed—wasting nutrients and causing protein decay into toxic substances in the colon.
Avoid reading newspapers or books while using the toilet. Defecation involves both lower and higher nervous centers. Many people habitually hold a newspaper or book, squatting for half an hour. Reading during defecation suppresses the defecation reflex, diminishes rectal sensitivity to stool, and may eventually lead to constipation.
Do not keep flying birds indoors. Bird droppings carry pathogens such as psittacosis virus, bird-type tuberculosis bacilli, and parasites. When trodden upon, these pathogens become airborne, posing serious health risks indoors. Prolonged inhalation may trigger respiratory mucosal congestion, coughing, phlegm production, fever, and in severe cases, pneumonia or shock.
Do not bathe for too long. Hot water produces large amounts of steam, causing volatile toxins like trichloroethylene and chloroform to evaporate by over 80% and 50%, respectively. Some toxic substances enter the bloodstream via steam absorption, posing significant health hazards. Additionally, prolonged exposure to hot water harms the heart.
Do not seal windows tightly while sleeping. During sleep, one inhales approximately 300 ml of oxygen and exhales 250 ml of carbon dioxide per minute. If windows remain sealed, indoor carbon dioxide levels can triple within three hours, and harmful substances like bacteria and dust multiply exponentially. Thus, leave a small window crack open to allow fresh outdoor air to enter and indoor carbon dioxide to escape.