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Healthy Holiday Tips

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Missouri Highlands Health Care hopes you have a healthy and joyous holiday season with our latest blog post! From mindful eating tips and stress management strategies to festive recipes and wellness activities, we’ve created health holiday tips to keep you in top shape while celebrating. Embrace the spirit of the season without compromising your well-being. Read on for a holiday filled with health, happiness, and a dash of inspiration!

Meal Time

  • Balanced Meals: It’s important to have a balanced meal, including a mix of lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. This can help maintain energy levels and prevent overeating. 
  • Mindful Eating: Savor small bites and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues. This will help prevent overeating and promote a healthier relationship with food.
  • Limit Sugar Intake: Holiday treats is one of the best parts of our festivities! It’s important to be mindful of our sugar intake, as the treats can be high in added sugars. You could opt for healthier dessert options or enjoy sweets in moderation.
  • Stay Hydrated: This is important for the whole day not just meal time. Drinking plenty of water, especially if you are consuming alcoholic beverages or indulging in salty holiday treats. Proper hydration is essential for your overall health. 

Stress Management

The holidays can be stress for everyone. You can practices stress management techniques like, deep breathing, meditation, or taking short breaks to relax. Maybe find a quite room to sit for a while or go for a walk outside. Fresh air is always good!

Good sleep is crucial for overall well-being. If the kids are out of school or you are off work, try to keep to your same bedtime routine. This will also help you transition back to your regular schedule when the holidays are over. 

Wellness Activities

Staying active during the holiday season is important to your overall health. You could go for a walk after a big meal or find fun ways to exercise with family and/or friends. If it’s too cold outside, you can also find virtual activities and challenges online. 

Socially connect with people. Whether it’s in-person or virtually, positive social interactions contribute to overall well-being. You could volunteer your time to bell ringing, go caroling, build a snowman, connect online with family or friends you haven’t seen a while. 

Hand Hygiene

Flu season is here. Keep yourself and your family safe by making sure you keep your hands washed to prevent the spread of germs. You can also prepare by getting the flu vaccine at one of our clinic locations. 

Healthy Recipe Idea

Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Onions
Fresh herbs, onion and sautéed bacon flavor this easy Brussels sprouts recipe. This savory dish is delicious in the fall and winter months when Brussels sprouts are in season.

By EatingWell Test Kitchen Updated on September 20, 2023
Tested by EatingWell Test Kitchen
Active Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Yield: 10 servings, about 3/4 cup each

Nutrition Profile:
Low-Carb Diabetes-Appropriate Dairy-Free Low Added Sugar Low-Fat High-Fiber Heart-Healthy Gluten-Free Low-Calorie

Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed
  • 4 slices bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 sprigs thyme or savory, plus 2 teaspoons leaves, divided
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice (optional)

Get the directions and nutrition facts by visiting the EatingWell website.