Four ways to stay healthy this holiday season
Adapted from the Sound Consumer, December 2002
This article was originally published in November 2011
The winter months are full of holiday plans, family gatherings, travel obligations, festivities and life on the go. Colder weather and increased amounts of stress can result in frequent colds and flus. With these simple steps, you can improve the function of your immune system and help prevent illness so you truly can enjoy the holiday season.
- Sleep — Sleep is essential. It keeps you fresh and energized for those special events and daily tasks.
- Vitamin supplements — Taking a multivitamin and extra vitamin C will help ward off illness. Stock up on immune-building teas and take a few minutes out of your day to enjoy a cup.
- Eat wisely — Supply your body with vitamins and nutrients the natural way. Fill up on nutritious foods such as organic vegetables, hearty soups and stews, lean meats and whole grains.
Avoid fried and fat-laden foods that can leave you feeling lethargic and heavy. - Water — Eight glasses a day keeps the doctor away! Staying hydrated will help the body perform at an optimal level and ward off fatigue. Add an extra glass of water for every half hour of exercise, glass of alcohol and cup of caffeine.