The holidays are a time of happiness and cheer, but they can also be a time of sniffles and stomach aches. That’s why it’s important to stay healthy during this time of year where germs spread easily and flu season is in full effect. Follow these tips to improve your chances of keeping your family (and yourself) healthy this holiday season.
Regular Hand Washing
To help keep children from spreading germs or getting sick, ensure that they are regularly washing their hands. Teach kids to wash their hands for 30 seconds or sing happy birthday twice while washing to make sure their hands are rid of germs.
Disinfect Those Germy Surfaces
During the cold winter months when flu bugs are common during the holiday season, make disinfecting wipes your best friend. Frequently disinfect surfaces that are touched often, such as the doorknobs in your house, remote controls, the sink handles, etc.
Keep a Close Eye on Children
Keep potentially dangerous toys and household items out of children’s reach. Protect them from burns, falls, and other potential accidents.
Reduce Stress
As many people know, the holiday season can be a stressful time of the year. With the worries of getting everything done for the holidays, stress could quickly become a major factor in maintaining your health. It can cause fatigue, insomnia, a lower immune system, a change in appetite, and even affect heart rate and blood pressure. Reduce stress by meditating, doing yoga or a workout.
Consistent Sleep Schedules
With all the holiday excitement, it can be difficult for children to unwind and get a good night’s rest. Parents can help by keeping their child’s sleep schedule as consistent as possible.
Focus on Family, Not Only on Food
Maintaining a healthy diet is difficult during the holidays, but a balanced diet is needed to maintain your immune system. So make the holidays more about enjoying family, traditions, and activities, rather than just the food. Incorporating healthier substitutes into holiday baking recipes is a good idea to lower the amounts of fat, added sugar and calories consumed.
Being a healthy role model for your children is important too. Try limiting yourself to one sweet treat a day and make this a rule for everyone in your household by putting sugary goodies out of sight at all other times. Also, instead of keeping a plate of cookies on the counter, replace it with nuts or fruit so you and the kids are more likely to have a healthy snack instead of reaching for sweets and desserts.
Stay Active
With the busy holiday season approaching, you may not have time to go to the gym, but dedicating only 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day can make a difference when it comes to your health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend children get at least 60 minutes of moderate aerobic activity daily. Getting your workout in while you play with the kids will make it easier and fun. You can make it a family affair with a basement dance party. Every bit of physical activity counts.
Following these tips will ensure you and your family have a fun and safe holiday season!
