Enjoy Thanksgiving Without Sacrificing Your Health
Thanksgiving is all about family, gratitude, and delicious food, but it can also be challenging for your health. From overindulgent meals to seasonal illnesses like colds and the flu, the holidays can take a toll on your well-being. With the change in weather, travel plans, and tempting treats, it’s easy to stray from your usual health routine.
At AFC Urgent Care Nanuet, we believe that the holidays don’t have to come at the expense of your health. With thoughtful planning, you can enjoy Thanksgiving to the fullest without compromising your well-being. Follow these ten tips to stay healthy and happy this holiday season.
- Prioritize Your Immune Health
Thanksgiving falls right in the middle of cold and flu season, making it essential to boost your immune system. Protect yourself by getting the flu vaccine, washing your hands frequently, and staying hydrated. Adding immune-boosting foods like oranges, spinach, and yogurt can also help.
If you haven’t already gotten your flu shot, stop by AFC Urgent Care Nanuet. We offer walk-in flu vaccines, and no appointment is needed.
- Get Plenty of Sleep
The holidays can be hectic, but getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining health. A lack of rest can weaken your immune system, increase stress levels, and make you more susceptible to illness. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night, even during the busy holiday season.
If you’re traveling for Thanksgiving, adjust your sleep schedule to avoid feeling jet-lagged.
- Practice Portion Control
It’s easy to go overboard with all the delicious food on the Thanksgiving table. From buttery mashed potatoes to decadent desserts, temptation is everywhere. Portion control can help you enjoy your favorite dishes without overindulging.
- Use a smaller plate to avoid piling on too much food.
- Start with vegetables and salads before moving on to heavier dishes.
- Try eating slowly to allow your brain to register when you’re full.
- Stay Active
Balance out the extra calories by staying active during the holiday weekend. A little movement goes a long way in maintaining your health and boosting your mood.
- Go for a walk after your meal—Thanksgiving walks are a great family tradition.
- Join a community Turkey Trot or other holiday-themed runs.
- Help with holiday cooking or decorating, which keeps you moving throughout the day.
Even a 10-15 minute walk can improve digestion and help you feel more energized.
- Manage Stress Levels
While Thanksgiving is meant to be joyful, it can also be stressful due to family gatherings, travel, and holiday preparations. Stress can damage mental and physical health, so it’s essential to manage it proactively.
- Practice deep breathing or meditation to stay calm.
- Set realistic expectations for holiday events.
- Take breaks when needed—don’t be afraid to excuse yourself for a moment to relax. Remember, Thanksgiving is about gratitude, not perfection.
- Wash Your Hands Frequently
With so many family gatherings, handshakes, and shared dishes, germs can quickly spread. Frequent handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of illness. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds before meals or after being in public spaces. If soap and water aren’t available, keep hand sanitizer handy for quick use.
- Stay Hydrated
Amid all the feasting, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. Drinking water throughout the day helps with digestion, keeps you energized, and prevents overeating.
- Drink a glass of water before meals to avoid overindulgence.
- If you’re drinking alcohol, alternate with water to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of hangovers.
- Herbal teas can also help with hydration and aid digestion.
- Avoid Overindulging in Alcohol
Holiday celebrations often include alcohol, but drinking in moderation is vital to staying healthy. Excessive drinking can lead to dehydration, disrupt sleep, and increase calorie intake.
Stick to one or two drinks and pace yourself throughout the evening. Don’t forget to drink water between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated.
- Be Mindful of Food Safety
Food safety is crucial during the holidays, especially when cooking for a crowd. Improper food handling can result in foodborne illnesses, so follow these guidelines to keep your Thanksgiving feast safe:
- Wash your hands before preparing food.
- Keep raw meats separate from other ingredients.
- Ensure that your turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Schedule a Post-Holiday Health Check
If you feel under the weather after the holidays or need a general health check-up, visit AFC Urgent Care Nanuet. We offer walk-in care for seasonal illnesses, injuries, and routine health screenings. If you overindulged during Thanksgiving, a quick visit can help you get back on track with your health goals.
Stay Healthy and Enjoy the Holiday Season
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and good food, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health. With thoughtful planning, you can enjoy the holiday festivities while staying active, hydrated, and stress-free.
At AFC Urgent Care Nanuet, we’re here to help you stay healthy during the holiday season. Whether you need a flu shot, treatment for seasonal illnesses, or general medical care, our walk-in clinic is open without an appointment.
For more information or to visit us, call (845) 367-7395. We all at AFC Urgent Care Nanuet wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!
