The holidays are a time of thanksgiving and togetherness as families travel, cook and eat together, share gifts, and enjoy the company of loved ones. At Premier Medical Group, we want to help ensure you and your family keep safe during the festive season. Brighten your cheer and enjoy the time spent with your loved ones by making safety a priority.
Wash hands often. Hand washing is a small and simple act of kindness that benefits you as well as those around you. During the holiday season, you can prevent the spread of germs and reduce your risks of catching an infection each time you wash your hands. For best results be sure to wash your hands with clean running water and soap and wash for about 20 seconds. If you are a parent, encourage your children to wash their hands regularly. Make hand washing a part of their routine before and after meals.
Get your vaccines. The colder months are usually a time when respiratory infections flourish. This is especially the case in colder regions of the country where residents often spend more time indoors because of the winter weather. Reduce your risks of becoming seriously ill during the holidays by first ensuring that you get your shots, for both the flu and COVID-19, where possible.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year. For the COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters, the CDC offers specific recommendations on when to get vaccines and boosters. Note that COVID-19 vaccines are especially important for those who have comorbidities including diabetes and other chronic health conditions.
Bring your own dish. If you are planning to attend a potluck party during the holiday, be sure to bring a dish that you prepared. This is of particular importance for those who have food allergies or for those who have chronic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, for instance. Such individuals will likely need to adhere to a stricter diet. Being able to eat a meal you’ve prepared, in such cases, would help you have peace of mind as you gather with friends and loved ones.
Avoid overeating. Delicious foods are often hard to resist, particularly during the holidays. Heartburn and acid reflux, however, are the likely result for anyone who overfills their stomach during the holiday season. The good news is that you can enjoy your meals this holiday season by having a plan. Consider taking small portions of different foods to help ensure you satisfy your appetite without overeating.
Stay smoke-free and prioritize fire safety. Did you know that most home fires* are caused by a lit cigarette that was not put out properly? Prioritize fire safety in your home by ensuring that you do not smoke indoors. If you are a parent, also be sure to teach your children about fire safety. Have an emergency plan and practice it regularly. Start by informing them about what to do if they hear the smoke alarm go off.
As you enjoy the holidays, also be mindful of potential fire hazards which are more likely to occur during the winter months due to increased use of heating options like fireplaces. Reduce your risk of fires by making sure you do not leave fireplaces, space heaters, or candles unattended. Also be vigilant when cooking, staying nearby to help ensure you reduce the risks of fires.
Watch your alcohol intake. The festive season often means more opportunities for alcohol consumption as individuals enjoy the revelry and joys of the holidays. Be proactive by deciding ahead of time that you will not drink and drive or encourage anyone else to engage in such activities. In addition, be mindful of your alcohol intake if you are taking medications which require you to avoid alcohol.
Exercise and stay physically active. Your body is an amazing gift with extraordinary functions and capabilities. As you stay physically active throughout the holiday season, you are helping to take care of your body while securing your ability to experience the joys associated with the season.
How will you stay active during the holidays? Consider activities you can participate in during the winter that enable you to meet the recommendations for at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week. These activities may include brisk walking, running or jogging.
By prioritizing your health during the holidays, you can make a world of difference as you prepare for a new year of possibilities. Happy Holidays from our team at Premier Medical Group!