Simple Ways to Keep Your Health on Track This Holiday Season

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The Benefits of Choosing Thankfulness

As the holidays approach, it’s a wonderful time to pause, slow down, and focus on what truly matters: gratitude, connection, and time with loved ones! Amid this busy season, taking a moment to appreciate life’s simple joys can make everything feel richer and more meaningful.

Gratitude doesn’t just lift your spirits, it also benefits your physical health! According to the American Heart Association, regularly practicing gratitude can improve mood, promote better sleep, lower blood pressure, and even strengthen your immune system.

This November, try weaving gratitude into your daily routine. Not sure where to start? Try these simple strategies to help cultivate thankfulness:

• Be Intentional — Reflect on what you’re grateful for while sipping your morning coffee, taking a walk, or sharing a meal. Try starting a gratitude journal to jot down daily things that bring you joy.
• Give Back — Helping others in need is both fulfilling and rewarding. Look for volunteer opportunities to support a local cause or find small ways to give back in your community.
• Strengthen Connections — Reach out to someone you’re thankful for and let them know! A simple note, message, or call can brighten their day and boost your own well-being too.
• Shift Your Perspective — It can be challenging to show up for others if you’re not taking care of yourself. On difficult days, focus on one positive moment to help shift your mindset toward gratitude.

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Managing Your Health During the Holidays

The holidays are all about fun, food, and festive cheer, which can make sticking to healthy habits challenging! The good news? You don’t have to give up the joy of the season to take care of your well-being. In honor of National Diabetes Month, we’ve rounded up simple strategies from the American Diabetes Association to help you keep your glucose levels on track while enjoying celebrations with loved ones:

• Share a healthier twist on a classic dish — Whether you’re hosting or bringing something to share, offering a lighter option encourages everyone to eat well. Try a delicious dessert with less sugar or a flavorful low-carb appetizer.
• Practice mindful eating — Holiday gatherings often come with snacks galore, but that doesn’t mean you have to overindulge. The ADA recommends slowing down and checking in with yourself: Are you truly hungry, or just eating because food is available?
• Don’t skip meals — Skipping breakfast to ‘save room’ for a big holiday feast does more harm than good. It may cause blood sugar dips (which are especially risky if you’re managing diabetes) and increase the chance of overeating, which can trigger spikes later on.
• Beat the post-meal slump — While it’s tempting to sink into the couch after a big meal, staying inactive for too long can raise your blood sugar. Combat ‘food coma’ and keep your energy levels up by taking a walk or doing light activity!

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