5 Tips to Stay Healthy Over the Winter Holidays
The chilly weather has arrived. For many, wintertime signals large gatherings, indulgent eating, and maybe an occasional cold or flu. Getting sick around this time of year can mean missing out on spending time with family and friends. Thankfully, there are several ways to be vigilant about staying healthy this winter. Here are 5 simple tips.
Keep Your Immune System Strong
A strong immune system is your body’s defense against getting sick. You can nourish it with a plethora of foods. Consuming fruits and veggies high in vitamin C can help bolster immunity. An array of citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, lemons, and papayas are all rich in the nutrient. Kiwi, broccoli, and spinach also contain this superpower. Vitamin C is one of many nutrients that support immune system health. Here are a few others:
- Vitamin D
- Selenium
- Iron
- Protein
- Zinc
Minimize Stress Levels
While the winter holidays are a joyous time, they can trigger stress responses. Stress can wreak havoc on the immune system, and this means that avoiding and minimizing stressful situations can help reduce your risk of getting sick. Instead of taking on too much this holiday season, consider delegating tasks. Try having a potluck party rather than committing to cook an entire dinner yourself. This can save you time and help cut down your to-do list significantly.
Eat Nutritious Meals
The holidays are all about the food. Sweets are everywhere. But, that doesn’t mean you have to indulge in unhealthy fare. While it can be tempting to neglect nutrition during the holidays, doing so can result in sickness. Over-indulging in sugar can make you feel tired and sluggish. The last thing you need around the holidays is low-energy. So, instead of eating sugary treats, try healthier alternatives like immune-supporting fruit salads and refreshing cranberry sorbets. For beverages, try warm apple cider with cinnamon and other healthier holiday drinks. While food alone cannot prevent illness, healthy eating planning is a great way to increase wellness and support an active lifestyle.
Get Your Exercise
During the wintertime, some of us tend to neglect our regular exercise routines. But, just because that bikini is in the drawer until next summer, it doesn’t mean you should let your workout regime slip. Keeping active and learning how to stay healthy is important during the holidays. There are many simple ways to get moving. Take a brisk walk if the weather permits. Doing some holiday baking? Get on the electric bike while that pumpkin pie cools or get up and dance at the next festive party.
Don’t Forget to Enjoy Yourself
Healthy eating during the holidays shouldn’t be a chore. Restricting yourself too much can cause you to feel depressed. Moderation is key to enjoying the abundance that the winter season has to offer. So, be mindful about what causes you to feel unwell and focus on what you can do to maximize your individual health and wellness.
All in all, the winter holidays offer us a hearty dose of food, family, and friends. The better we feel, the more we can reap the rewards of the season. Keeping your immune system strong, minimizing stress, and getting enough exercise are all key components of a healthier winter season. At Z.E.N. Foods, we are committed to making healthy food delicious, easy and accessible for all. Browse our website today, and learn how we can help you make wellness simple.