Nov 17
8
We are full steam ahead; the holiday rush has begun. Beyond getting the flu vaccine, there is a lot you can do to help your body and mind during the holidays. Allison Aiello, Ph.D., a professor of epidemiology at the University of North Carolina, offers a few words to help us survive the Holidays.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Alcohol use has been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. If you drink, do so in moderation.
- As you prepare holiday meals, keep yourself and your guests safe from food-related illness. Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs (including their juices) away from ready-to-eat foods and eating surfaces.
- Wash your hands at least three times per day.
- Volunteer. It is always good to give back to your community.
- Check your “Martha Stewart” impulses at the door and accept that you can’t do everything—especially if you have a new baby or toddler in the house.
- Before you attend a party, or are sitting down to eat a big holiday dinner, make sure to drink plenty of water. Water fills you up and is good for you in just about every way.
- Depression and anxiety increases during the holidays. Watch for signs of depression among your friends and family.
- Take more walks. Physical activity is the best way to benefit your health during the holidays.
- Spicy foods boost your metabolism, so enjoy hot peppers, hot sauce, cayenne pepper and the like when cooking your favorite dishes or vegetables.
Enjoy the season…Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas!
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