We are approaching the holidays and it is a time of camaraderie, celebrations, and love. At the same time it can be detrimental to our health, lead to depression, and leave us feeling guilty if we over indulge. Make a plan now, and consider these tips to enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season.
Staying Healthy
In the year of COVID-19, we have all learned the best ways to stay healthy and prevent infection. Simple tips include, as we know, to wash our hands frequently, stay socially distant from others whenever possible, and wear masks when you cannot.
These same tips apply to the flu and the common cold this holiday season. For extra protection take your family to get their flu shot by the end of November.
Help Your Family Boost Their Immune System
You can stay healthy from the flu, common colds, and even build your strength during this upcoming holiday season by serving your family foods that will help to boost their immune system.
Feed them fresh citrus fruits full of Vitamin C like oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and clementines.
Plump red bell peppers have more Vitamin C than any fruit or vegetable, in fact three times more than an orange.
Leafy greens like broccoli give you not only Vitamin C, but also A and E, plus spinach has antioxidants to fight off infection.
Yogurt for lunch, snack on almonds, and drinking green tea for an afternoon “pick me up” are all tasty ways to keep your family healthy.
Everything In Moderation
It is easy to overeat at a party or buffet. Try to have a snack and drink water before attending an event so you won’t overindulge. Also, drink a glass of water with every alcoholic drink to stay hydrated.
Safe Travel Tips
First and foremost don’t drink and drive. You put yourself, your family, and others in danger. Buckle up your children in their car seats or fasten their seat belts. Never go anywhere without everyone wearing their seat belt.
Wear appropriate clothing with layers to protect yourself from the cold weather.
Manage stress if you must drive long distances by getting enough sleep. Lastly, be a role model and don’t use your cell phone while driving.
Be The Fire Police
Be sure all candles are extinguished before going to bed, or just use flameless candles.
Keep fireplaces maintained and remove anything combustible near to the fire. Always place a screen in front of the fireplace when it is burning. Watch out for decorations on your mantle that can cause a fire.
Be sure matches and lighters are away from children.
Remember to water your tree if it is a live one, and keep it away from the fireplace.
Reach Out To Relatives And Friends
This can be a lonely time of year for many, especially those who are older or live alone. Send a note or card, try to visit them, invite them over or call them to let them know you care. It can make a difference in their lives.
If we all pay attention to our surroundings and any fire hazards, eat healthy foods, stay warm, exercise and include others in festivities, we can have a safe and healthy holiday season.
Contact Davidson Family Medicine at (704) 892-5454 or request an appointment online if you have any health concerns during the holiday season.