The holidays offer many opportunities to enjoy special time with family and friends, attend festivities and celebrations, and take a break from our regular schedule and obligations.  However, some people find this time of year to be hectic or stressful.  They may find it difficult to deal with irregular schedules, too much rich food, and the ordeal of fighting off seasonal illnesses.  The following are some tips to help maintain a healthy balance so that we can enjoy the holidays.

Eat Healthy and Stay Hydrated

During the holidays, people often eat foods that are high in sugar, fat, and added calories.  We should make a conscious effort to choose healthy options.  Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low fat dairy products are healthy dietary choices that can help boost the immune system.  Try consuming smaller portions to limit weight gain that we will struggle to lose in the new year.

Staying hydrated lubricates joints, maintains organ function, regulates digestion and waste removal, and aids in maintaining energy levels.  Plain water is best.  Avoid sugary liquids which add extra calories.  Avoid alcohol, which actually contributes to dehydration.

Stay Active

Exercise is good for us, even in cold weather.  Try to maintain your regular fitness routine.  Even when traveling, it’s usually possible to take a short walk.  Take the stairs when possible, and park a little farther away in parking lots.  Physical activity helps reduce stress and anxiety, as well as contributing to better quality sleep.

Get Enough Sleep

Try to stick to your regular sleep schedule, even when traveling.  Proper sleep helps regulate hormones, supports better immune health, boosts heart health, and helps regulate stress.  Adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night for good health.  School age children should get 9-12 hours of sleep nightly.  Teenagers need 8-10 hours of sleep per night.

For a better night’s sleep, turn off electronics two hours before bedtime.  Sleeping in a slightly cool, dark room promotes better sleep quality.  Maintain a consistent sleep schedule by keeping the same bedtime and wake up time each day.

Get a Flu Shot

According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, influenza activity is widespread in Georgia at this time.  It is not too late to get a flu shot, although it takes two weeks after injection for the body to build enough antibodies to fight off the influenza virus.  While it is still possible to get sick after the shot, the odds of becoming seriously ill are lowered.

Symptoms of flu often include fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, headache, coughing, and runny or stuffy nose.  Children may experience vomiting or diarrhea.  People with weakened immune systems and chronic health conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes are at greater risk of serious complications and hospitalization.

RMD Primary Care

The physicians at RMD Primary Care offer a variety of services to support men’s and women’s health.  Contact us to schedule an appointment.