How the Holidays Affect Your Health

Tips for Having a Healthy & Happy Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and indulgence. However, all of those holiday festivities can also have a negative impact on our health. From overeating at parties to skipping workouts in favor of shopping or socializing, it's easy to let our healthy habits slide during the holidays.

But don't despair! By being conscious of potential pitfalls and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy the holidays with your loved ones while still maintaining your health.

Mindful Munching

Who doesn’t indulge in a holiday cookie, or two — or three. Good food is a pillar of this festive season, but moderation is key. One way to prevent excessive snacking and overeating is by eating a balanced meal before attending holiday parties or gatherings. This will keep you from overindulging in junk food and desserts.

Limit the Eggnog

Celebrating with alcohol is common during the holiday season, but drinking responsibly is important. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to dehydration, weight gain, and even liver damage. If you're going to drink, do so in moderation and ensure you're drinking plenty of water.

Get Your Steps In

It's also important to stay physically active during the holidays. Keep up with your regular exercise routine or find ways to incorporate activity into your holiday plans, such as going for a walk after a big meal or signing up for a seasonal activity like ice skating or snowshoeing.

The Gift of Self-Care

Don't forget about the importance of rest and relaxation — give the gift of self-care to yourself. The holidays can be hectic, but it's important to make time for self-care and getting enough sleep. Be sure to take time to relax your body and mind, spend time with loved ones, and reduce stress to the best of your ability. When we relax and reduce stress, we also prevent chronic disease!

Know When to Seek Medical Attention

From burning yourself cooking the Christmas ham to sudden chronic health symptoms — the holiday season is joyous but can be prone to accidents and medical emergencies. Though you may be having a great time with your loved ones, know when to seek medical care to prevent a more severe health situation.

Emergency Medical Care in Longview, Nacogdoches, and Odessa

For more holiday health and safety tips, read our recent blog: 5 Tips to Keep the Holidays Merry & Bright

By following these tips, you can have a happy and healthy holiday season! If you believe you are sick and are experiencing a medical emergency, don’t hesitate to dial 911 and seek the emergency care you need. Contact us online, call us at (903) 500-7321, stop in for quick and effective relief, or visit one of our locations in Longview, Nacogdoches, and Odessa today.