The holiday season is officially in full swing. It’s a busy time of year with lots of fun opportunities to get together with family and friends. It can also be a time to indulge in ways you don’t normally during the rest of the year. Make sure you don’t pay a price, or fall into unhealthy habits that stick with you, with this advice from health professionals…
Watch what you eat. Pay attention to labels and avoid ultra-processed foods, especially those high in added sodium, saturated fats and sugar. Consider having a healthy snack before the big meal or offer to bring a healthier dish for the holiday spread. Drink water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages, and eat nutritious, whole foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables alongside richer holiday dishes.
Prioritize your mental health. Factors such as holiday spending and navigating time with extended family can bring on extra seasonal stress. Get sufficient sleep and exercise, and don’t hesitate to talk to a mental health professional when you need help managing stress.
Prioritize physical activity during this busy time of year. A good rule of thumb for adults is at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week. Brisk walks, bike rides, hikes and family-friendly sports like basketball and touch football can provide easy, fun ways to get off the couch and elevate your heart rate. If you’re traveling, don’t forget to pack your sneakers!
Be prepared when traveling. Whether you’re flying or taking a road trip, you might be tempted to grab convenient yet unhealthy food for the journey. Consider packing your own snacks, such as fresh fruits and vegetables or small portions of dried fruits and nuts. When flying, pack your medication in your carry-on bag instead of your checked luggage so it’s easily accessible. Keeping medication handy will help you avoid missing a dose on busy travel days, especially amid flight delays. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water during your flight as air travel can cause dehydration. And keep your body moving in-flight to avoid blood clots.
Plan ahead if you’re driving. In December 2023, 1,038 people died in alcohol impaired-driving crashes in the United States. If you plan to drink, always arrange for a sober driver or alternative transportation. And if you are the designated driver, commit to 100% sobriety. Also make sure to get plenty of sleep before your road trip as drowsy driving is responsible for an estimated 100,000 car crashes each year nationwide.
Read more about what doctors advise for the holiday season here.
You can also start your New Year’s resolutions now. Work to break unhealthy habits like smoking or eating ultra-processed foods. Try to eat healthy and stay physically active. You don’t have to wait until January 1 to make a commitment to yourself!