Healthy Tips for the Holidays

The holidays are a perfect opportunity to enjoy loved ones, celebrate life, be grateful, and reflect on what's important to you. It is also a time to appreciate the gift of health. Support health and safety for yourself and others by following these timeless holiday tips.

• Wash your hands often. Keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Wash your hands with soap and clean water, rubbing them for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water isn't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Stay warm. Cold temperatures can cause serious health problems, especially in infants and older adults. Stay dry and dress warm in several layers of loose-fitting, tightly woven clothing.
• Manage stress. The holidays don't need to take a toll on your health and pocketbook. Keep your commitments and spending in check. Balance work, home, and play. Ask for help from family and friends when needed. .
• Travel safely. Whether you're traveling across town or around the world, help ensure your trip is safe. Don't drink and drive, and don't let someone else drink and drive. Wear a seat belt every time you drive or ride in a motor vehicle. Always buckle your child in the car using a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt appropriate for his/her height, weight, and age.
• Get check-ups and vaccinations. Exams and screenings can help find potential problems early, when the chances for treatment and cure are often better. Schedule a visit with your health care provider for a yearly exam. Ask what vaccinations and tests you should get based on your age, lifestyle, travel plans, medical history, and family health history.
• Handle and prepare food safely. As you prepare holiday meals, keep your family safe from food-related illness. Wash hands and surfaces often. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs away from ready-to-eat foods and eating surfaces. Cook foods to the proper temperature and refrigerate promptly.
• Eat healthy, and be active. With balance and moderation, you can enjoy the holidays the healthy way. Limit fats, salt, and sugary foods. Be active for at least 2.5 hours per week. Help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention