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Survive the Season: 7 Expert Tips for Staying Healthy During the Holidays
The holiday season is still a few months away, but did you know that now is the best time to start preparing?
From traveling and attending gatherings to experiencing holiday stress, the winter season comes with an increased risk of getting sick — and the habits you start now can help you stay healthier throughout the season.
Our team at AssociatesMD offers comprehensive primary care and vaccinations in Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Weston, Margate, Dania Beach, and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
We see people of all ages for routine checkups and preventive care. Here are seven expert tips for staying healthy during the holidays.
Tip 1: Get your flu vaccine
Getting your annual flu shot is one of the most important steps you can take to stay healthy.
The vaccine reduces your risk of contracting influenza by approximately 40-60%, depending on the strain. Even when the vaccine doesn't prevent infection entirely, it significantly reduces severity and duration.
October is a great time to get your flu vaccine because it gives your body time to create antibodies before flu season peaks during the holidays. If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, contact us to set up an appointment.
Tip 2: Practice good hand hygiene
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds regularly, including:
- After using the bathroom
- Before eating
- After greeting guests
- When arriving home from outings
Hand sanitizer works when handwashing isn't available, but soap and water is more effective. Hands are the main route for transmitting colds, flu, and other illnesses around the holidays.
Tip 3: Manage holiday stress
Stress weakens your immune system and makes you more susceptible to illness. And since the holidays often bring scheduling changes, financial stress, and complicated family dynamics, your stress level might be higher than usual.
Take time now to identify stress-reduction strategies that work for you. Consider trying:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Yoga
- Time in nature
- Creative pursuits
Even 15 minutes daily of stress management can support better immune function.
Tip 4: Prioritize quality sleep
Sleep is when your body does important repair work and strengthens your immune system, but the holidays are often a source of sleep schedule disruptions.
Do your best to maintain consistent sleep and wake times, even when you’re traveling, off work, or during the holidays. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly, and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, which disrupt sleep quality.
Tip 5: Stay hydrated and eat a nutritious diet
Holiday indulgences are part of the celebration, but don't abandon good nutrition entirely. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins that support immune function, and balance healthy choices with holiday treats.
Dehydration also affects your body’s immune response, so drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit alcohol.
Tip 6: Maintain your exercise routine
Travel and changes to your schedule can make it difficult to keep your regular exercise routine, but physical activity strengthens immunity. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.
Since winter weather in Florida is pleasant, outdoor activities are accessible and enjoyable year-round.
Tip 7: Don't neglect chronic condition management
If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, don’t let the holidays disrupt your medication schedules or routine appointments.
Monitor your conditions as you normally would, and reach out to your healthcare team if you have questions about managing your conditions during the holidays.
The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration — not sickness. By getting your flu shot and putting these tips into practice, you can boost your chances of staying healthy all winter long. Contact AssociatesMD to learn more.