Winter and Holiday Health Tips
December 14, 2017
Reviewed and Updated by Anastasia Iliou,
Winter and Holiday Health Tips
Even though Thanksgiving is over, the season of unhealthy temptations is still upon us. From large, carb-filled family meals to all the shopping you have to do, it’s hard to stay healthy during the winter and holiday season! Plus, it’s the worst time of year for airborne illnesses like The Flu. Medicare Plan Finder can help you. These are our best winter and holiday health tips.
Stay Active
It’s hard to find the motivation to go to the gym when it’s cold outside. Consider working out at home instead! You don’t need fancy equipment to do it, just a little bit of room to move and willpower to get it done. Take the stairs whenever you can, take 10-minute walking breaks at work, or consider these other sneaky workout tips.
Eat Healthy
If you’re planning a big Christmas dinner or if you’re having a hard time staying away from candy canes, there are alternatives! Reach for dark hot chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants. Consider drinking mint tea instead of reaching for a candy cane. Always provide healthy side dishes, like creamed spinach or sweet potatoes.
Travel Safely
Whether you’re going to visit family for the holidays or going on a ski trip, December is a big travel season.
Germs spread incredibly easily through airports, and even more easily through planes. You’re stuck breathing the same air as a lot of other people for the duration of your flight. Plus, the airport common areas and the planes themselves aren’t exactly thoroughly cleaned very often. Bring mini hand sanitizers (small to pass through security) with you and wash your hands thoroughly before eating or touching your face. Bring your own pillows and blankets.
If you’re driving, be sure to check road conditions first. Look out for bad weather and heavy traffic! Keep an emergency first aid kit, jumper cables, and a toolkit in your car. Make sure everyone is buckled in and there are no distractions.
Avoid The Flu
Illnesses like The Flu really do spread more easily in cold weather, so bundle up! Keep yourself warm, wash your hands often, and drink plenty of water. Avoid touching your eyes, ears, nose, and mouth – especially if you’ve been in a public area. Eat plenty of foods with antioxidants, like berries, pecans, and dark, leafy greens.
Also, take advantage of your health care! Your plan probably includes preventative care. Be sure to attend your yearly wellness visits, and go to your doctor as soon as you feel sick. Remember that Medicare includes one free well visit every year. Contact us for help with your health care. Call 1-844-431-1832.
Have a happy, healthy, and safe winter and holiday season!
