5 Tips for A Healthier Holiday Season
The holidays are here and it's notoriously a time where everyone tends to indulge, but don't let this season of festivities be the green light to impact your health. Try these 5 tips for a healthier holiday!
Say “No” to Stress
The classic saying “Tis the season to be jolly” but jolly may be the last thing any of us feel with cooking, cleaning, overspending, constant visitors, and the endless lists of what needs to get done. Aim to keep humor throughout the month of December and also proportion. Think to yourself, is it really the end of the world if the house doesn't look like it belongs in a Better Homes magazine Holiday addition or if you miss one side dish in festivities? Keep in mind that Christmas is one day out of the year and isn't worth the stress that may come along with it.
Indulge without Overindulging
Enjoying the beautiful spread and holiday dinners with family and friends is a massive part of the season but remember you don't have to overindulge to truly experience it. We've all been guilty of overindulging, whether that is an extra serving of roasted potatoes or the extra glass of Prosecco. Research shows that some during the holiday season can consume over 3000 calories just at Christmas dinner. This type of eating not only contributes to indigestion and heartburn, but also lethargy for the remainder of the day. Instead of aiming to inhale your meal down in a matter of minutes, eat a normal sized meal and take a 30-minute break in between. It takes the brain around 20 minutes to register that the stomach is full.
Feature Fruit on the Menu
Never mind the partridge, let's focus on the nutritional and health benefits of the pears. It's more important than ever to add fruit to your festivities. Fruit usually isn't something that is a key feature on the holiday menu, but this is the time of year that's more important than ever to get your vitamins and minerals in to ensure you stay healthy.
Stay Active
Encourage your family and friends to stay active during the holiday season. This is a great time to sign up for a 5k race or plan for a family walk, frisbee game or some old fashion games. Aim to not sit down all day. This can be a challenge, given that every Christmas special will be airing on TV.
Hydration is Key
There always is plenty to drink during the holiday season, but that doesn't mean you have to overdo it. Choose alcoholic drinks wisely and continue your daily water intake between alcoholic beverages, if you do indulge in some festive drinks. Before heading to a gathering, drink two glasses of water and plan to alternate non-alcoholic drinks. In order to prevent the inevitable holiday hangover it's recommended to drink one full glass of water for every alcoholic beverage.
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