Set Yourself up for a Heart-Healthy Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. It can also be a period of interruptions to your daily routine. With a little planning, you can make these interruptions as low-stress as possible. No matter what you have going on during the holiday season, you can take steps to make the end of this year healthy and enjoyable.
Here are some ways to support your health during the holidays:
Stick to your healthy eating routine: Social events with big meals and treats can make it hard to stay on track with healthy eating habits. Rather than skipping meals and arriving at a party overly hungry, stick to your regular eating routine. That way, you’ll be less likely to overindulge. [1]
Stay hydrated: Don’t overlook the importance of staying hydrated during the colder months! It’s just as important to stay hydrated during the colder months as it is during summer. In fact, central heating creates drier indoor environments that can lead to dehydration. Drink water, tea, or other sugar-free beverages throughout the day. [2]
Continue monitoring your health: The holidays can disrupt your regular routines, including self-monitoring. Continue to monitor your health numbers and check in on any symptoms you’re experiencing during the holiday season. Research shows that the winter holiday season comes with more cardiac events than other times. Stay tuned in to how you’re feeling and seek medical care immediately if you experience any heart attack symptoms. Monitoring changes in your numbers and symptoms can help you stay safe. [3]
Stick to your meds: If you take any medications, support yourself to continue taking them as prescribed. It can be easy to forget to take them or get them refilled on time with the hustle and bustle of the holidays. If you travel, double-check that you’ve packed your medications and you have enough. Setting phone alarms when you’re out of your normal routine can help you stay on track. [3]
Lean into support: Your family and friends can help you stay healthy, but only if they know how support you. Help them understand your food, physical activity, and other healthy routine needs. Your loved ones may be able to help with things like ensuring healthy food options are available or joining you for a walk or other activity.
The winter holiday season can come with plenty of different experiences, from joyful to downright difficult. Everyone has their own challenges during this time. With thoughtful planning, mindful choices, and support from loved ones, however, you can have a healthy holiday. Taking care of your health is the best way to embrace the holiday season.