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How To Stay Healthy Over The Holidays

Staying Healthy Over the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes an abundance of delicious treats, festive gatherings, and busy schedules. While it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and indulge in all of the delicious food and drinks, it's important to remember the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Not only will staying healthy help you feel your best and avoid the potential negative effects of overindulgence, but it can also help you enjoy the holiday season even more. After all, who wants to spend their time feeling bloated, tired, and uncomfortable when they could be feeling energized and ready to enjoy all that the holidays have to offer?

That's why we've put together this ultimate guide on how to stay healthy over the holidays. From simple tips on how to make healthier choices at holiday gatherings to strategies for maintaining your fitness routine, we've got you covered. Follow these tips, and you'll be able to enjoy the holiday season without sacrificing your health.

1) Never Skip Meals:

You should never skip meals! Staying healthy means eating healthy, and that includes making time to eat three meals per day.

If you're constantly skipping meals, you'll end up feeling sluggish and tired. And if you're skipping meals because of work or other obligations, then try to make sure that you get in at least two snacks a day so that you can keep yourself energized throughout the day.

If you need to skip a meal because of an event or something else, then make sure that whatever food item you do eat is packed with nutrients. Instead of reaching for a bagel or donut in the morning, try getting some whole-grain cereal with low-fat milk instead. Or if your schedule allows it, have a smoothie made with fruit instead of juice—you'll get more fiber and protein than if you were just drinking juice!

2) Drink the Right Fluids:

In addition to eating regularly, it's also important to pay attention to the fluids you're consuming. While it may be tempting to indulge in sugary, alcohol-filled drinks at holiday parties, they can quickly add up and cause you to feel bloated and uncomfortable.

Instead, try to stick to water or other low-calorie, hydrating drinks like unsweetened tea or seltzer water with a splash of fruit juice. Not only will these help you stay hydrated, but they'll also help you avoid overindulging in calories.

If you do choose to drink alcohol, be sure to do so in moderation. Alternate each alcoholic drink with a glass of water and try to limit your intake to one or two drinks per day. This will help you avoid overdoing it and feeling ill the next day.

3) Maintain Your Fitness Routine:

It's easy to let your fitness routine fall by the wayside during the busy holiday season. But staying active is crucial for maintaining good health.

If you're struggling to find time for regular workouts, try incorporating physical activity into your daily routine. This could be something as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during your lunch break.

You could also try finding fun ways to stay active with your family and friends. This could be going for a hike or playing a game of basketball. And if you're traveling during the holidays, research local fitness classes or gyms in the area to keep up with your routine, and stay healthy.

Remember, staying active not only benefits your physical health, but it can also improve your mental well-being and help reduce stress. So, make sure to prioritize fitness during the holiday season.

4) Make Healthy Choices at Gatherings:

When it comes to food, it's essential to make healthy choices. At holiday gatherings, try to fill your plate with mostly fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of high-fat, sugary foods, and opt for healthier alternatives when possible.

If you're hosting a holiday party, try offering a mix of healthy and indulgent options. This will allow your guests to enjoy themselves without overdoing it and stay healthy. You can also try offering healthy twists on traditional holiday dishes, like using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in a dip or using whole-grain flour in your baked goods.

By following these tips and prioritizing your health during the holiday season, you'll be able to enjoy all the festivities without sacrificing your health. Stay active, make smart food choices, and don't forget to hydrate – your body (and your taste buds) will thank you.

5) Get Enough Sleep:

Ahh, sleep. It's one of the most important things we can do for our health, yet it's often the first thing we sacrifice during the busy holiday season. But getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system, regulating appetite, and improving mood and cognitive function.

Make sure you're getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night and try to stick to a regular sleep schedule as much as possible. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and other stimulants in the evening, and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down and prepare for sleep.

If you struggle with sleep, consider talking to your doctor or a sleep specialist to find out what may be causing your sleep issues and how to address them.

6) Manage Stress:

Holidays, well, can be stressful. Between planning gatherings, buying gifts, and dealing with family dynamics, it's easy for stress levels to rise during this time of year.

But it's important to manage stress in a healthy way. Stress can have a negative impact on both your physical and mental health, so it's important to find ways to relax and de-stress.

One way to do this is by setting aside time for self-care. This could be something as simple as taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or practicing meditation. You could also try incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routines, such as deep breathing exercises or yoga.

It's also important to prioritize sleep during the holiday season. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, anxiety, and a weakened immune system. So, make sure to get a good night's rest and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind and prepare for a restful sleep.

7) Wash Your Hands Often:

We couldn't stress this tip enough! The holiday season means more gatherings and social events, which means more opportunities for germs to spread. Make sure to wash your hands often, especially before and after eating, to help prevent the spread of illness.

If you're unable to wash your hands with soap and water, carrying hand sanitizer with you can be a great alternative. Just make sure that it has at least 60% alcohol to kill germs effectively and allow your guess to stay healthy during the holidays.

The Verdict

In conclusion, the holiday season doesn't have to mean sacrificing your health. By following these tips, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and enjoy all that the holiday season has to offer. So, stay mindful of your choices, prioritize self-care, and don't forget to check out our blog on the benefits of getting routine checkups around the holidays for more information. Happy holidays from UC Best Medical Center!

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