5 bad habits that can actually be good for you (PHOTOS)

We've all been taught that there are certain habits that we just shouldn't follow. I, for example, am a perpetual nail-biter. Though I am constantly being hounded by family and friends to stop, try as I might, I just can't help it! Every time I get nervous or stressed, I'll suddenly look down and find that my nails have somehow been bitten to the quick. Oops!

But as it turns out, while nail biting might not be the best practice, it can actually boost your immune system. And that's not the only bad habit that has some surprising benefits. Check out more below:

Nail biting

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Maxwell GS/Flickr

Biting your nails could expose you to more bugs which sounds bad, but can actually be good. The more exposure, the better your  immune system's ability to fight them will be. It's the same logic that applies to people who use too much hand sanitizer, which can actually have a negative impact on the immune system.

Eating in bed

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_Schward_/Flickr

Contrary to what every parent tells their kids, eating in bed can actually aid in digestion. Why? Well, the more relaxed you are when you eat, the better the digestion. Eating while stressed or in a rush could interfere with the digestive process and make you end up with pain or bloating.

Knuckle cracking

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orijinal/Flickr

Though some have previously believed that knuckle cracking can cause arthritis, recent studies have shown that it actually has the joints of people with this habit are just as healthy as the joints of those don't have it. In fact, the cracking can actually make the knuckle joints feel more flexible.

Burping

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richmooremi/Flickr

A burp may seem kind of disgusting, but it can actually help protect your body against damage from stomach acid. In fact, surpressing them can mess with digestion and  cause problems.

Spitting

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woodleywonderworks/Flickr

Spitting while exercising can actually help you breathe easier. Since we tend to inhale deeply while working out, cells in the back of throat form a layer of saliva to protect it against the cold air. If it builds up, it can interfere with breathing patterns.