When the holidays come around, it can be easy to forget to stay healthy. But we didn't forget. Or at least, we're trying not to.
City Cast is breaking down how to keep your spirits up and health in tip-top-shape with the help of longtime public radio host and new podcaster, Dr. Zorba Paster. City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin talks to Zorba about everything from vaccines and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to unpacking how to avoid health misinformation.
Eating Tips
- The main consensus is don't overdo it. In other words, keep fiber-rich vegetables in your diet, avoid ultra-processed foods, and when you do go for grandma's dessert or your partner's special soufflé, have a little bit! Just make sure to "enjoy it and savor it, and then move along."
- The CDC has some great general tips on how to stay healthy too, things like, move, eat vegetables, and sleep enough. One more recent recommendation is to reduce and/or limit your alcohol. All these help ideas whether it's holiday season or work time.
- And if you're looking for healthy recipes, places like the American Heart Association have a mouth-watering list of tasty, healthy dish ideas. One of my favorites is the simple baked apple, to finish off a delicious meal.
Hygiene Tips
- When you're shaking hands and hugging your loved ones, or even just getting together in a crowded place, enjoy the moment. But if you have to sneeze or cough, do it into the crook of your elbow. And please, wash your hands! The more you wash, the less likely you are to catch a cold.
- The flu shot is another great way to not only prevent yourself from getting seriously ill, but from spreading a disease that can be much more serious than some sneezing and coughing. Influenza killed between 27,000 and 130,000 people in since October of last year. Not only do tons of CVS pharmacies offer the vaccine, it takes two weeks for your immune system to reach peak effectiveness.
Mental Health
- There are the classics like, try to get some sun, eat fresh foods, and get exercise. But mental health can also mean practicing gratitude, talking to good listeners (family members, friends, or therapists), and trying something to break your routine. Have you always wanted to learn guitar? It's a good time to try plucking the strings. Is there a TV show or book you're curious to check out? That might work too.
- At large gatherings, among the celebration and joy there can also be uncomfortable conversations which take a toll on even the best intentioned family member. Some ways to cope are by setting firm boundaries, make a plan, and set your intentions before you arrive.
- The important thing to remember here is that you're not alone. Whether it's a family gathering where you feel a little out of place, or at home with FOMO because your neighbor is on vacation in the Maldives. Don't be afraid to reach out.
