When it comes to so-called “bad” habits, some rules were made to be broken.

By Amber Daley

Ever notice that New Year's resolutions are both easy to make and easy to break? Mark Twain once said, “When I was a youth I used to take all kinds of pledges, and do my best to keep them, but I never could... I generally broke down within the month.” Bad habits can become so ingrained that attempts to make adjustments feel futile, at best.

Maybe you tried a cigarette for the first time; maybe you fell in love—who knows? Maybe you're in love with internet surfing. These and other pleasurable experiences release dopamine (a feel-good chemical associated with addiction and food) in the brain and before you know it—and usually without even realizing it—you might find yourself with a nasty habit that takes months or even years to break.

Whether it's excessive drinking or nail biting, we all have things about ourselves we'd like to change. Many choose January 1st as the day to begin making healthy choices. For some, ringing in the New Year might mean less Facebook and more face time; for others, it might involve a complete lifestyle overhaul. But while some addictions necessitate professional help, others habits aren't as “bad” as we may have previously thought—in fact, they have been scientifically proven to be good for you. We at EM have done a little digging to demystify what habits you should ditch—and which ones you might want to keep.

– enjoying a cup of java
Because coffee is full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, a cup a day may minimize the risk for Parkinson's disease, cancer and type-2 diabetes.

– surfing the net
According to a study at the University of California at Los Angeles, after a week of browsing, the internet can actually make a person smarter. Says the study's coauthor and psychiatrist Gary Small, M.D., “Time online may improve your ability to make decisions.”

– sipping red wine
Reservatrol, found in the red stuff, helps prevent diabetes, obesity and cancer. It has long been known to be heart healthy, increasing good cholesterol and protecting against artery damage.

– nibbling on chocolate
Cocoa beans contain flavanols that have antioxidant effects, reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow. Opt for dark, minimally processed (preferably organic) chocolate.

– a moderately messy abode
Exposure to some amount of dirt contributes to a healthy immune system, while killing all the germs makes way for more resistant—and more dangerous—strains. In addition, some disinfectants have been linked to an increased risk of asthma, so stick with environmentally friendly cleaners.

– drinking a beer
A good brew's main ingredient, malted barley, contains heart-healthy antioxidants. Its high levels of Vitamin B6 help promote coronary health and silica (highest levels are found in pale ales) is known to strengthen bones.

Courtesy of http://www.spryliving.com and http://www.womenshealthmag.com.

Still convinced you've got vices that need to go? Then set goals, but be realistic. If you rarely exercise and suddenly adopt an intense daily regimen, your workout likely won't work out. Take baby steps, easing yourself into a program that is motivating yet enjoyable. If you smoke a pack of cigarettes a day, quitting cold turkey may not be the best option. Can you cut back? Think about when you typically indulge. When you're stressed? Distracted? Bored? Opt for chewing gum when these moments arise.

Don't just dwell on kicking a habit. Also focus on healthier practices you want to adopt. Is fast food your kryptonite? Instead of barring yourself from over-processed foods completely, why not prepare an additional meal at home each week, trading in burgers and french fries for grilled fish, whole grains and a fresh salad? Your pocketbook will thank you, too.

Be specific. Rather than vaguely aiming to “get healthy,” write down what “health” looks and feels like. Does it mean bringing your own lunch to work and eating it in the park rather than grabbing fast food and eating at your desk?

Above all, remember to take it slow, be kind to your body and expect setbacks. In his writings, Twain mentioned an elderly woman who had fallen ill and was advised to “stop swearing and drinking, and smoking.” However, she had never done any of these things, and, this abstinence prompted him to write, “She had neglected her habits... She was a sinking vessel, with no freight in her to throw overboard and lighten ship withal... she was just a moral pauper.” So if the idea of making a New Year's resolution seems daunting, don't be discouraged. After all, isn't it our imperfections that make us all a little more real?