Winter is almost here, and with winter, come holidays and celebrations. Almost everyone is excited and looking forward to the holiday plans and parties. From family get-togethers, to dinner parties here and there, and certainly a whole lot of shopping, time seems to fly during the holiday months.
Just as you prepare for the holidays, your body will also have to adapt to the changes in the weather. When the cold winter hits town, you can become susceptible to illnesses if you’re not careful. Surely you don’t want to spend the holidays laid up in your bed, or worse, confined in a hospital room, rely on your health insurance. And so it is imperative that you do not lose sight of your health goals, so you can cross out the long list of your plans and commitments this holiday season with a smile. Here are three major guidelines for you to stay fit this winter:
Maintain a Healthy Diet
During the holidays, you’re probably thinking your body deserves some pampering after you have been sticking to your diet all year. Well, think again. You don’t want to give your body a bad break by not maintaining a healthy diet at this time of the year. You hit every party, and cannot miss the steak or skip dessert. That’s totally acceptable but the key is to have the discipline to eat the right amount. Avoid saturated fat, processed sugars, and keep your carb count on the lower side. Remember to increase your fiber intake by opting for garden salad and fruits when they’re available. It can be very tempting to enjoy what the holiday feast has to offer, but this is only one season in a year, and your health might suffer all year round if you’re not being cautious.
Make Time for Exercise
As you carefully plan all out your winter activities, be sure to make time for exercise. Don’t make the cold weather an excuse not to hit the gym or do your daily exercise routine. You have your whole living room and unlimited resources online to try a new muscle toning exercise when you’re on holiday. Just because you’re busy moving around to all the social gatherings doesn’t mean you should put off exercising until next year. With the excess eating and drinking, the winter holidays are a time when you have to burn those extra calories and work harder to stay fit and healthy. Working out regularly, whether it’s hitting a gym, or going for a run,improves your mood and promotes good blood circulation necessary to survive the cold winter.
Maximize Body Protection
No matter how much attention you put into your diet and exercise regimen, viruses and bacteria have a way of getting into your body. During winter, it’s easier for you to catch a common cold, the flu, or feel joint pains and more inflammation. These illnesses are due to a lack of vitamins and minerals, generally. Maximize your body protection by taking supplements especially Vitamin A and C, Iron, and Calcium. This will strengthen your immune system and boost your energy level so you can stay fit this winter.
Enjoying the holidays in the pique of health would be the best gift you can give to yourself and ensure you’re able to celebrate with friends and family.