6 Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season
The winter holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness and delicious food. However, the holidays also happen to overlap with cold and flu season, which can put a damper on your holiday plans if you’re not careful. With so many social gatherings and group outings, it can be challenging to keep up with your wellness goals and protect yourself from seasonal bugs and viruses. Read on to learn how you can stay healthy and energized throughout the holiday season.
- Find Fun and Festive Ways to Stay Active
Cold weather and shorter days can make it easy to let your exercise routine fall to the wayside, but staying active helps keep your immune system strong so it can protect you from illnesses like the common cold and flu. Regular exercise also keeps your energy levels high, so look for fun winter-friendly activities that get you moving, like ice skating, nature walks or even dancing to your favorite holiday tunes. If the weather is too cold for outdoor activities, try an online yoga class or consider high-intensity interval training exercises. Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement each day to get your blood flowing and keep your immune system in tip-top shape.Staying active is just one part of keeping your immune system strong through the winter. If you do catch a cold or flu, Midwest Express Clinic has you covered. With over 50 locations open daily, we’re ready to help you recover quickly with personalized care.
- Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping meals to “save calories” for big holiday dinners might seem like a good idea, but it can backfire in more ways than one. When you’re overly hungry after skipping a meal, you’re more likely to overeat and crave foods that are high in sugar and fat. Plus, a balanced meal schedule helps keep your energy levels stable, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system.Start your day with a healthy and energy-boosting breakfast that prioritizes high-protein foods like eggs, Greek yogurt or oatmeal. If you’re feeling hungry between meals, snack on raw vegetables, a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit to satisfy your appetite until your next meal.
- Avoid Overindulging During Holiday Meals
Holiday meals are often filled with rich and indulgent dishes high in carbs, sugar and unhealthy fats. When it comes to maintaining a healthy eating routine during the holidays, the key is balance. Here’s how you can enjoy your favorite dishes without overindulging.
– Fill half of your plate with vegetables before adding other foods.
– Eat slowly and savor every bite to help you maintain portion control.
– When possible, limit high-calorie extras, like creamy sauces or buttery toppings.
– Instead of skipping dessert completely, treat yourself to a smaller portion of your favorite holiday treat.
– Bring a nutritious dish to your next holiday meal. That way, you know there’s something healthy you can enjoy and it helps you avoid overloading on calorie-dense foods. - Stay Hydrated (No, Eggnog Doesn’t Count)
Dehydration is easy to overlook in colder weather conditions, but staying well-hydrated is essential for immune health and overall body function. Common holiday beverages like eggnog and hot chocolate can add calories without satisfying your thirst. Aim for eight glasses of water daily to help keep your energy steady, improve digestion and support your body’s immune response. You can even make hydration festive by adding slices of orange, lemon or cranberries to your water. Herbal teas and sparkling water are also good ways to stay hydrated if you’re looking for some extra zing.Our clinics provide fast, convenient care for dehydration, colds, flu, and more. Our expert team is dedicated to keeping you feeling your best this season.
- Prioritize Sleep
Busy holiday schedules can disrupt your sleep routine. Studies show that a lack of sleep can lower your body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. That’s why it’s important to prioritize a consistent sleep schedule, which ranges from seven to nine hours each night for adults. Quality sleep improves immune function, helps your body handle stress more effectively and regulates appetite. Some helpful tips to improve your sleep hygiene include:
– Avoid caffeine in the afternoon.
– Wind down at night with a warm bath or a book.
– Set a digital curfew by putting away your devices such as computers, tablets and smartphones an hour before you go to bed. - Keep Holiday Stress to a Minimum
Holiday obligations and social commitments can bring all kinds of stress, which affects everything from your mood to your immune response. Stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and viruses like the common cold and flu. Keep your stress levels balanced with mindfulness techniques like journaling, meditation or breathing exercises. If you’re new to mindfulness, you can try a guided meditation app or just close your eyes, breathe deeply and focus on gratitude for a few moments each day. These simple practices can help lower stress levels, support your immune health and leave you feeling more grounded.
Stay Healthy This Holiday Season with Midwest Express Clinic
The holiday season doesn’t have to derail your health and wellness habits. By making smart eating decisions, keeping your stress in check and staying active, you can enjoy the holiday season without compromising your well-being.
If you or a loved one need urgent care this holiday season, Midwest Express Clinic has you covered! Our experienced providers are here to help you and your family navigate cold and flu season, so you can feel your best in time for the holidays. And don’t forget to schedule your annual wellness exam before the end of the year to take full advantage of your insurance benefits. Find a convenient Midwest Express Clinic location near you at midwestexpressclinic.com/locations.
