Health Around the Holidays
Do you love the holidays but hate the inevitable pounds that seem to accompany this time of year? Well, here is some good news; according to a study put out in the New England Journal of Medicine, average holiday weight gain is only around 1 pound. Of course there are variations for everyone based on different factors, but the fact remains; holiday weight gain isn’t as bad as we thought.
So how do we successfully navigate the season without becoming one of those anomalies who gain more than the studies show?
Here are a few tips to help keep you on track:
- Move your body every day! Even a few minutes of brisk walking is better than nothing and can assist in digesting all that amazing food you’ve eaten.
- Be mindful of salt. For many of us as we get older, blood pressure can be a concern and water retention is also related in part to our sodium intake. You may not be able to avoid all the salt-laden items on the holiday tables, but you can eat some of those rich portions in moderation.
- Avoid excess alcohol. We all know too much of anything can be a bad thing and alcohol is no exception. If you choose to imbibe in those fancy seasonal drinks, do so carefully and in moderation (notice that word keeps popping up?)
- Laugh and enjoy your loved ones! The Holidays are meant to be enjoyed with those we love. Laughing is good for your soul but it also is proven to decrease stress hormones and increase infection fighting antibodies and immune cells.
From all of us a Pacifica Senior Living we wish you a holiday season filled with good things, laughter and most important, time with those you love!
Thank you for being part of our family!