12/21/2023
While the holidays are a time of gatherings with family and friends, they can also be a source of stress, as exercise schedules might be disrupted for shopping excursions and rich holiday meals make it difficult to adhere to a particular diet.
Here are some tips for staying healthy during the holidays!
1. Make healthy choices
From rich meals to tempting and tasty homemade snacks, the holidays are a time for many to indulge in food — or overindulge. Try to plan meals with other events in mind.
Eat the “my plate” way- ¼ plate fruit; ¼ plate vegetables; ¼ plate protein; ¼ plate grains.
For example, if a big dinner is planned for New Year’s Eve, consider serving a lighter lunch of salad or soup. You don’t want to deny anyone of the food they like to eat at this time of year, but you don’t want anyone to gorge themselves, either.
2. Stay hydrated
Drinking water (or flavored water) is one way you can stay healthy during the holidays.
Senior citizens, especially, need to drink plenty of fluids, as not drinking enough water could cause hospitalization.
To make it easier to stay hydrated, have water easily accessible at home and keep bottled water in a purse or bag when running errands.
3. Follow dietary restrictions
It can be difficult to adhere to a diet during busy, stressful times, especially if there aren’t any healthy options available.
When people get stressed, they tend to overeat and don’t stick to their diets. To make it easier to follow dietary guidelines, keep healthy options like fresh-cut vegetables and fruit on hand.
4. Drink in moderation
Drinking too much can impair functions, and for some senior citizens.
Drinking alcohol with certain medications can have adverse side effects.
Consider offering fun, alcohol-free drinks so everyone can celebrate the holidays.
