December is upon us! As the holiday season kicks into high gear, many of us lose track of our health goals until the New Year. Here are 10 ways to stay healthy during this holiday season (while still enjoying all of the celebratory goodies!).
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Get Moving – The weather may be less than motivating, but physical activity can help you have more energy, sleep better, feel happier and live longer. Get creative! Download a new Yoga app, find a Zumba routine on YouTube, or enjoy a light snow ball fight with the family.
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Fight the Flu –Protect yourself and your family with the flu vaccination. If you get vaccinated during pregnancy, your baby will be born with some flu antibodies that will help protect them from the flu for several months.
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Watch What You Eat – With balance and moderation, you can enjoy a healthy holiday meal without the guilt. If you’re pregnant, be aware of foods to avoid such as eggnog and poultry stuffing.
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Limit Your Drinking – Did you know: a 16 oz. cup of homemade hot chocolate is about 385 calories—and that’s without the whipped cream? Like your meals, enjoy your beverages in moderation. Pregnant? Avoid drinking. There is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy or while trying to get pregnant. All alcoholic drinks can affect a baby’s growth and development and cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs).
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Go Smoke-Free – Smoking is the single most preventable cause of illness and death among mothers and infants. Quit smoking and avoid second hand smoking to reduce your risk of premature birth, birth defects and stillbirth.
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Wash Your Hands – A quick and simple way to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. On-the-go? Use hand sanitizer until you have access to soap and water.
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Manage Stress – Women are twice as likely to experience stress then men. Reduce your stress during the season of giving by figuring out what you can afford and sticking to it. Remember: it’s the thought that counts.
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Get Some Sleep – Holiday planning can be hectic, so make sure to get some shut eye. Being exhausted means you’re more likely to skip the gym, crave junk food, and catch a cold.
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Travel Safely – Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, preparation is key to protecting your family. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers recommended vaccinations, travel health updates, tips to travel while breastfeeding and child passenger safety information.
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Schedule a Wellness Visit – The year is almost over, and so is your health insurance plan. This is the best time to schedule any wellness visits you may have missed during the year.
Remember to stay safe and have FUN! Happy Holidays.
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