Staying Healthy During the Holidays

It’s sort of a cruel joke that cold and flu season occurs at the same time people are running around preparing for the holidays. If you’re one of those people who gets sick every December or early January, here are a few tips to help you stay well enough to enjoy the season.

But first, a disclaimer: The following tips are compiled from medical studies and are not meant to be a substitute for medical treatment. Always consult your doctor first.

Drink more water. Few people drink enough water, especially in the winter when dry air dehydrates us without triggering thirst. Proper hydration helps the immune system, thins mucous, and enables mucous membranes to resist germs. To boost its benefits, squeeze lemon in your water. In addition to providing a little extra Vitamin C, lemon helps to cut mucous.

Use a zinc nasal spray and/or zinc lozenges. A recent study found that zinc nasal sprays can reduce the duration of a cold by 75 percent. Zinc nasal sprays inhibit the cold virus by enabling the zinc to make direct in the throat and nose. The same study said zinc lozenges were slightly less effective than the zinc nasal spray but do boost the immune system. A study by Consumer Reports found that of zinc lozenges, real zinc lozenges were most effective followed closely by Cold Eeze. Regular cough drops with added zinc were much less effective.

Eat in moderation. Holiday tables are loaded with tempting foods, and it’s easy to eat too much because you’re more interested in the conversation than portion control. Some people also eat more when they’re uncomfortable, whether it’s due to Uncle Ted’s rude jokes or not knowing anyone at your spouse’s office party. Indulge smartly by having your favorites in small quantities. It’ll help your digestion and your waist line.

Wash your hands regularly and clean doorknobs and telephones frequently. Recent studies have shown that germs live on hard surfaces much longer than previously anticipated, which is why when one person in a family gets sick, the others do, too.

Even if you do wash your hands often, try to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to further minimize the spread of germs. Don’t leave used tissues lying around. Throw them away immediately. If you do cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue (best) or the inside of your arm (as a last resort) to minimize spreading germs to your hands.

Exercise when you can. Exercise alleviates stress, burns calories and strengthens the immune system. At the minimum, park further away from the shopping mall to sneak in a little extra walking

Minimize your alcohol consumption. It’s just empty calories and energetically, it imbalances your system.

Don’t skimp on your sleep time. It’s one of the first things we cut back on when we’re busy, but that lowers our immune system. Studies have also shown that while people suffering from sleep deprivation often believe they are alert, they can often be just as impaired as someone drinking. At the first sign of a cold, REST. Fighting through it will guarantee that you’ll get sick, but if you rest and take care of yourself as quickly as possible, you might nip it in the bud.

Many studies indicate that Vitamin C can reduce cold symptoms, and, if taken throughout the winter, may help to prevent colds.

Studies have shown that elderberry is a very good anti-viral that speeds recovery of flu and respiratory infections by inhibiting replication of the influenza virus and respiratory infections. One U.S. study showed that 70 percent of those taking elderberry improved after two days and more than 90 percent were better within three days, as opposed to those given a placebo. The placebo recipients took six or more days to recover. Israeli doctors routinely use a medicine derived from elderberry to treat bronchitis, flu and pneumonia with great results.

The best way to stay healthy during the holidays is to minimize stress and the first step in doing that is to stop assuming the holidays will be difficult for you. The fields of positive psychology, the Law of Attraction and holistic healing modalities provide a variety of effective techniques for changing your holiday experience from stressed to blessed. Begin by allowing for the possibility that you can have a better experience and new opportunities will emerge. nn