Staying Healthy During the Holidays

By Mark Zakrzewski, M.S., Department of Campus Recreation

For most of us, the holidays are synonymous with family, togetherness, happy times, memories and food... lots of food! But while the holiday season can be one of the most wonderful times of the year, it can also be a time of stress, poor sleep, unaccommodating travel and illness. So what steps can you take this year to ensure your holidays are filled with health and happiness?

Know your immune system friends and foes! Stress, nutritional deficiencies, lack of sleep, and excess alcohol and sugar can weaken your immune system. Take a proactive stance against these immune system foes with regular exercise, restful sleep, a healthy diet and emotional balance.

Wash your hands often! It may sound cliché, but the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs is to keep your hands free of the illness causing viruses and bacteria.

Plan your indulgences! Pick your spots to enjoy holiday treats. It’s okay to indulge in moderation, but balance the sweets with a regular healthy eating plan. Take healthy snacks on shopping trips and travel days.

Add exercise where you can! While there may be a few disruptions in your regular workout routine, there are numerous opportunities to add additional activity to your day. When shopping, park your car farther away from the store and walk. When at the mall, walk one lap around each level before going in to any of the stores. Take a walk after dinner to look at the holiday lights.

Appreciate those around you! At holiday gatherings, spend time in conversation meeting new people or getting to know loved ones better as opposed to focusing on sweets and alcohol.

Promote health! Make a decision to be an advocate for a healthy and happy holiday season through your words and actions. Prepare healthy meals and snacks for you and your loved ones. Serve smaller portions. Organize walks after dinner. Promote balance. For parents with children away in college, give them a holiday care package with some healthy snacks, exercise tubing and a book on relaxation techniques. Don’t forget that even during the holidays, a healthy lifestyle is a choice. Choose to give the gift of health to yourself and your loved ones this holiday season!

Mark Zakrzewski can be contacted via email at marcusz@email.arizona.edu