As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to think about your health. With the holidays come large meals, weekly shopping, travel, and stress. It’s easy for normal everyday habits to falter during this time period. Make sure you’re striving to stay healthy by following the four simple tips below.

Continue Exercising. Staying active physically is a very important component of overall health and wellness. Participating in aerobic activity, walking, yoga or tai chi for just a few minutes a day increases your cardiovascular health and reduces stress.  Try scheduling your fitness each day and sticking with it.

Control Your Portions. When gathering for a holiday meal, you may be tempted to eat more than you usually do in your regular diet. Exhibiting portion control is important in keeping blood pressure low and maintaining weight. Remember to drinks lots of water during a meal and eat slowly to avoid the temptation of multiple servings.

Avoid unhealthy foods. High sugar items such as candy and other sweets may appear in droves during the holidays. One treat here and there can add up, so be careful about eating unhealthy items. Instead try snacking on healthy holiday treats such as carrots, celery, tomatoes, nuts and fruit. If you receive candy as a gift, do not feel obligated to eat it all. Share it will others or donate it to a food drive.

Wash your hands. When buying gifts for Hanukkah or waiting to purchase a Christmas tree, you are surrounded by hundreds of people doing the same. Germs spread very fast during the holidays, so remember to wash your hands before every meal and avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth with your hands to keep germs at a minimum.

Remember that the holidays are a time of celebration with friends and family. Keep active, eat healthy, and above all—have fun! You don’t need to give up on your health and wellness to enjoy all the joy the season brings. If you have any dietary questions, need health tips or want to consult a nearby physician, just contact us at Aventura Hospital and Medical Center. Our Consult-A-Nurse service is available 24 hours a day.

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