Staying healthy at Christmas: Tips for energy, mood and wellness

Christmas is a wonderful time to invest in family and friends, relax and have a bit of fun but sometimes our traditional habits can take their toll on our health.  December can be a time of reduced activity levels, late nights and overindulgence of food, and alcohol. Here is a quick survival guide to make the most of this wonderful time of the year.

Optimise your energy

• Eat light wholesome nutritious meals in between feasts.
• Take breaks from sugar, sweets, alcohol and refined carbohydrates in between feasts.
• Keep well hydrated with water and herbal teas.
• Take exercise or a walk in the fresh air each day.
• Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
• Don’t overheat your home. 18-21 deg and cooler at night is about right.
• Include a good magnesium and B complex in your supplement regime. 

Keep your tummy happy
Indigestion, bloating and gas are common symptoms of overindulgence.

• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly (at least 15 times for each mouthful).
• Avoid overeating and poor food combinations.
• Don’t drink too much with meals.
• Allow some time between courses.
• Have a tbsp of apple cider vinegar or bitters in water 30 minutes before your meal.
• If these are persistent problems consider a food intolerance test and a gut health programme.

Avoid headaches and hangovers
Excess alcohol can lead to dehydration the combination of which often results in a headache or hangover.

• Drink a glass of water in between alcoholic drinks and before you go to bed.
• Don’t drink on an empty stomach.  Fatty foods are usually good at reducing the risk of a hangover.  Opt for healthy oils in salmon, mackerel, tuna, avocado, olive oil, and coconut oil. 
• The day after eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and ideally give yourself a few days break before consuming alcohol again.

Avoid Colds and Flu

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially if you have been out and about.
• Colloidal silver spray is a healthy alternative to anti-bacterial hand gels.
• Avoid touching your hands to your mouth, nose or eyes. 
• Eat a wholesome diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and whole grains.
• Minimise sugar, sugary food, drinks and alcohol.
• Get plenty of exercise and fresh air.  A walk outdoors is ideal.
• Get plenty of sleep, relax, have fun and laugh a lot.
• Take a good multivitamin and mineral, in addition to vitamin C and Echinacea.

Avoid dry skin and hair
Central heating, freezing temperatures and overindulgence can wreak havoc on our skin and hair.

• Moisturise thoroughly.  Try using your night cream during the day as these are usually oiler and heavier than day creams.  Coconut oil can be used as a natural moisturiser and hair mask.
• Minimise central heating in your home.  Rather put a sweater on than crank up the heating too high. 
• Consume plenty of oily foods.  Oily fish, flax seeds, avocado, nuts and seeds, olive oil, and coconut oil and take an omega-3 supplement.
• Eat plenty of leafy greens and red, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise to increase circulation and nutrients to your skin and hair.

Boost your mood
Christmas can be a time of fun, reflection and planning but can also be a sad and lonely time for some.

• Remember to take your vitamin D supplement at this time when light levels are low.
• Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and protein foods.
• Get fresh air and exercise.
• Spend time with fun people who build you up and enjoy a few laughs. 
• Spread goodwill to all.  Think of others who may be lonely and would appreciate a phone call, an email, a gift or a dinner invitation.
• Forgive and give thanks.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the festive season without compromising your health or well-being. Christmas is a time to celebrate and cherish loved ones, but it’s also important to care for yourself. Balance indulgence with healthy habits, stay active, and take time to rest and recharge. With a little mindfulness, you’ll not only make the most of the holiday season, but also start the new year feeling refreshed, happy, and full of energy.