When we think of the holidays most people think of family, fun, and food! But what most people don’t realize is that even during the holidays it is important to take care of your health. After all, we all want to start the New Year off right. But often times our choices at the holidays make this difficult. Here are some tips to stay healthy during the holidays.
Decrease the extra calories in your cooking!
• If you’re going to a holiday party eat a healthy meal beforehand to decrease the amount you consume once you are surrounded by goodies at the party.
• Be the one who brings a low fat, low calorie dish to the party.
• Modify the old recipes you love to reduce the calories you ingest to healthier
alternatives.
• When you have leftovers make a salad with them instead of a sandwich.
Rethink your drink!
• Choose water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages.
• Limit your alcohol intake. Drink a glass of water for every glass of alcohol.
Get Active!
• Make a goal with a friend to walk more daily. This is easy at the holidays. While at the mall, park as far from the mall entrance as possible. While shopping do at least one or two extra laps at the mall while you finish your shopping.
• Instead of focusing all of your holiday get-togethers around a meal, get outside. Start a yearly football game on Christmas Eve at your local park or have everyone go on a family hike before your big Christmas dinner.
Limit your stress during the holidays!
• Make lists and get organized: write out who is on your gift list, as well as the maximum price you wish to spend per person.
• Exercise relieves stress so don’t change your daily exercise routine during the holidays.
• Don’t miss scheduled doctor’s appointments.
• Visit you chiropractor to re-align your spine. Chiropractic not only relieves muscle tension, it helps to alleviate back pain and helps to improve nervous system function leading to an increased immune system.
For more information contact Dr. Kelly Herta, DC at 661-295-5200. Aligned Health Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located at 27875 Smyth Drive, Suite 100 in Valencia.