To Your Health!

If ever there’s a time of year when our healthy habits are in danger, it’s likely the holiday season. From mid-November to early January, we tend to stay up later, indulge more and move less. That’s a problem because pausing good habits can have consequences on your health long after the holidays are over.

Senior couple works in the kitchen, doing dishes and cutting vegetables.

That’s not to say the holidays can’t be a jolly good time. With a healthy routine at the helm, you can eat, drink, be merry and still stay true to the habits that will have you feeling your best all year long.

EAT: TREAT YOURSELF WELL

Studies show not only do we gain a pound or two during the holidays, but the extra weight stays on and snowballs over the years.

Eating seasonal favorites high in fat, sugar, salt and calories can add to other health hazards, too. The heart must work harder, and cholesterol and blood sugar levels can climb higher.

Don’t let the good work you’ve done for your health take a backseat as soon as a candied ham is on the table! Give these tricks a try:

  • Limit portions. Avoid overeating by starting with smaller portions on your plate. Dining out? Take half your food to go to save for another meal.
  • Don’t deny yourself a favorite food, but pause after a small bite or two. Often that’s enough to satisfy a craving.
  • Sip water between bites. You’ll feel full faster without eating as much.
  • Have a healthy snack before eating out. You’ll be less likely to overeat or make unhealthy food choices at the party or restaurant.
  • Did you splurge? Get back on track by making healthy choices in your next meal.

DRINK: DO IT WISELY

“To your health!” is a common holiday toast, but remember that drinking too much wine, beer or spirits can be harmful to your physical and mental health.

Try these safer ways to enjoy holiday cheer:

  • Set boundaries. Before you go out, think about what you’re going to order and how much. Then stick to your limit.
  • Drink water between alcoholic drinks.
  • Dilute wine or spirits with flavored sparkling water. Add sweetness with a splash of fruit juice instead of syrups.

BE MERRY: LEAVE ROOM FOR LIGHTNESS

Make time for people and activities that lift your spirit as well as nurture your body.

Exercise is one of nature’s most potent mood lifters and it’s great for your physical health—including for controlling blood sugar during holiday eating if you’ve got diabetes.

Lastly, don’t forget to laugh this holiday! Because when it comes to nurturing body and soul, smiling, chuckling and guffawing are all good medicine.

SCAN Club Issue 4 2024 Health
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