It’s that time of year again and if you have made it to the mall you have probably seen the stress this time of year can sometimes bring. You have also most likely tasted some of the holiday goodies.
Here are the Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team’s top ten tips to help stay happy and healthy this season.
1. Eat breakfast every day. A healthy start to the day will help prevent grabbing the treats that tend to be around the office this time of year.
2. Think “portions.” Try using a smaller plate at the next buffet or potluck. It will help you decrease portions without even realizing it.
3. Eat slowly and stop when you are no longer hungry (not full). Move away from the food table, ask the server to pack up leftovers, or get rid of your plate to help prevent eating just because the food is there.
4. Enjoy your favourite holiday treats guilt free. It’s easy to go overboard with the sweets and big dinners but be choosy. What foods rate 10/10 for you? Have a few of these favourites and make healthy choices the rest of the time.
5. Take a healthy and delicious item to events. Many people will appreciate this and you will have at least one healthy choice.
6. Drinking alcohol? Keep it to the recommended amounts (one to two drinks for women and two to three for men) to prevent feeling tired, run down, and the extra calories that come along with that rum and eggnog. Try alternating alcoholic drinks with soda or sparkling water with lime.
7. Get outside and play! Don’t use the cold as an excuse – use the snow as a reason to get outside. Try making snowmen with the kids, go skating, tobogganing, cross-country skiing, or organize a snow soccer or football game. Aim for 30 minutes of activity each day.
8. Dress for the weather. This will make being active outside much more enjoyable. Hats, scarves and waterproof gloves are must-haves. Dress in layers so you can take them off when you warm up.
9. Learn to say no. People will understand if you cannot go to every event or make cookies for every party.
10. Enjoy the season! Take a breather, relax and experience all of the amazing things this time of year has to offer. Taking a little break from the hustle and bustle to spend just 15 minutes alone can help you better cope with the stress.
For more information about any of the free services offered by the Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team, visit www.mmfht.ca or call 519-638-2110 or 519-327-4777.
