Tips For Staying Healthy This Holiday Season

‘Tis the season for festive fun and family… and often for unhealthy habits. While there is nothing wrong with indulging in sweet treats over the holidays, maintaining good health during winter can be a challenge.

Celebrate a happy and healthy holiday season with our wellness tips below.

Fitness & Nutrition

• Stay Hydrated – Drink enough water to avoid confusion between thirst and hunger.
• Healthy Snacks – Consider a healthy snack before a big meal to keep your portions under control.
• Monitor Food Temperatures – Use a food thermometer to ensure food reaches safe internal temperatures when cooking that big holiday meal.
• Stay Active – The average person gains 1.5 pounds during the holidays. On top of delicious treats, it can be easy to stay sedentary during the winter.  If you’re losing motivation to be active due to cold weather, incorporate at-home workouts. You can also make exercise an annual holiday tradition in the form of ice skating, skiing, walking, etc.
  

Avoid Illness

• Bundle Up – Did you know that 40% of body heat is lost from your head? Wear a hat! Also, try mittens as they provide more warmth than gloves.
• Spread Cheer, Not Germs – You’ve heard it before! Wash your hands often and avoid contact with those who are sick. This will help protect your health and the health of those around you.

Overall Wellness

• Cook Carefully – While hosting a holiday gathering can be stressful, ensure that you are not leaving pots and pans unattended; this can help avoid the all-too-common holiday kitchen fires.
• Be Careful With Your Plants – Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe all look beautiful but are harmful if ingested – keep away from children and pets!
• Shovel Safely – Take frequent breaks and warm up with light stretching before shoveling to avoid injuries.