5 Tips For A Healthy Holiday Season

The holiday season is right around the corner and with it come travelling and festive gatherings with family and friends. 

But amid all this Christmas cheer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can seem daunting. 

Especially as you age, keeping to your health habits throughout the year is more important than ever.

Which is why we wanted to share the Physical Nutrition team’s favourite festive health tips. To help you keep your health in check while you enjoy the coming holidays.

Without worrying about colds, the flu or breaking your healthy habits. 

________________________________________________________________

1. Plan Ahead Before You Travel

Whether you’re travelling by car, train or plane, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. 

Pack some healthy, nutritious snacks. Nuts, seasonal fruit or veg sticks are some easy options. 

To help curb your cravings while you’re travelling. Keeping you full and satisfied. 

So you won’t be tempted by the airport fast food chains or petrol station meal deals. 

________________________________________________________________

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can  sneak up on you during travelling or the busy festive period. 

Which is why carrying a reusable water bottle is the perfect way to keep you on track. 

Easy to carry around with you and refill when needed. Even at the airport.

What’s more, water will help fortify your immune system and keep your blood sugar in check. 

So instead of calorie packed coffees or sugary soft drinks, why not try some natural flavoured water? 

Simply add fruit or herbs to your water for an extra flavour. A great way to motivate you to stay on top of your drinking goals. Cranberries, cucumber, mint or rosemary can be perfect choices for the season. 

________________________________________________________________

3. (Try To) Stick To A Routine 

Holidays can throw your daily routines off balance. Especially when it comes to your sleep. 

So aim to stick to your normal sleep pattern as closely as possible.

Packing an eye mask or some earplugs can also help you get a restful night’s sleep, even in noisy environments. 

What’s more, if you’re regularly taking medication, it’s a good idea to set a reminder alarm on your phone. As the holidays bring multiple distractions, which could easily lead to missed doses. 

________________________________________________________________

4. Don’t Forget Your Vitamin D

With reduced daylight around this time of year, comes a lack of vitamin D. 

So make sure you step outside the house when you can for a short walk, a stroll or even sitting in the garden for 5 minutes. 

This will not only support our vitamin D production, but also your mental well-being. 

Eating foods rich in vitamin D is also a great way to help your body during winter. Salmon, cheese boards, mushrooms and eggs are a great vitamin D source for an extra boost. 

This is crucial for your bones, brain health and energy levels. Keeping you in top form to enjoy the festivities.

________________________________________________________________

5. Prioritise “Me Time”

The holidays can be busy and stressful. So now it’s even more important to allow yourself time to recharge. 

Whether it’s a few minutes of meditation, a short walk, a soothing bubble bath, or simply unwinding with a good book…

These can work wonders in keeping stress at bay, without taking up too much time. Because as they say: to look after others, you have to look after yourself first…

_______________________________________________________________

Final Thoughts

Balancing health amid all the festivities doesn’t have to be complicated.

In fact, it’s all about making conscious choices. Supporting your well-being while also relishing in the joy of the season. 

And don’t forget, the holidays only come once a year. So do make sure you’re kind to yourself and allow room for a little indulgence too. 

After all, you deserve it!

____________________________________________________

Sources: 

https://www.forbes.com/health/body/healthy-holiday-guide/

https://myassuredhomenursing.com/senior-health-tips-to-ensure-happy-holiday/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d/