7 Tips for a healthy Holiday Season
The holidays are upon us. The weather is changing constantly and social gatherings are rampant. Let’s take steps to keep the holidays safe. Angels Concierge Service wants to give tips for how to enjoy the holidays with you loved ones with the least help concerns.
1. Get your exams and screenings. Ask your health care providers what exams you need and when to get them. Make your appointments with you providers. It’s important to continue to keep your health in the front of the celebrations. Never get too busy to mind your health. Remember to refill prescriptions prior to vacations
2. Dental care is important. Neglecting your dental care is not an option. Dental care and health care work together. Your mouth is the entry to the digestive and respiratory tracts and some of the dental bacteria can cause disease. Medications can reduce saliva and can potentially affect the growth of bacteria in the mouth with side effects of dry mouth. Your dental care is directly linked to heart disease, pregnancy and birth complications, pneumonia, diabetes, Alzheimer disease and HIV/AIDS. Dental care is a way to keep you healthy. We are eating and drinking during the holidays so remember to get your dental appointments.
3. Get your vaccinations. Vaccinations help prevent diseases and save lives. Flu season is here and so are the holidays. The exposure to family and friends is greatly increased and can increase the chances for exposure to flu and other illnesses. We are seeing increases in COVID 19 hospitalizations, the need for boosters is important as we move into the social gatherings.
4. Don’t drink and drive or let others drink and drive. Drunk or buzz driving is dangerous. Everyone on the road is in danger if drunk driving occurs. Please use Uber or a designated driver if you know you will be drinking. A great gift for the holidays is an Uber gift card for those that may be overindulging. It’s a great gift that shows you care.
5. Wash your hands often to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer, especially after shaking hands or touching surfaces.
6. Manage your stress. Get rest and adequate sleep. Give yourself a break if you feel overwhelmed or stressed. Use mediation, guided imagery, prayer and self-care to maintain a positive mental health status. Schedule some me time every day- a nap, a hot bath or a dog walk. Be mindful of your family/friends/co-workers and their mindset- ask how they feel and continue to monitor their mental wellness as well. Suicide and depression are a huge concern during the holidays so be mindful.
7. Eat healthy and stay active. Eat fruits and vegetables to pack in nutrients. Limit your portion sizes and foods high in salt, fat and sugar. Be active everyday- walk and move as much as possible. Find time to exercise for at least 15-30 minutes per day. Keep the kids active- get them away from the tv and video games. Ensure they get some exercise daily. Hydrate well with water.