The most wonderful time of the year is upon us and though it is the best, it definitely brings trouble. Children hopped up on copious amounts of candy and giddy to get out of school can make for some exhausting months to end the year. Some ways to help you get through this season in one piece include eating right and getting plenty of sleep. The things talked about are important to keeping a healthy immune system and keeping you and your family germ-free. The thought of one person in the house getting sick and then the domino effect is enough to never want to leave the house but making healthy decisions will be a lifesaver from having to deal with multiple people sick at once.
Eat Balanced Meals As Often As Possible
Oftentimes during the holidays we as parents feel so overwhelmed that the thought of making meals for our family every day seems like a joke. It’s important to eat balanced meals though, especially in the winter months. A healthy diet is crucial to boosting immune systems to help fight off the nasty bugs that make rounds during the colder months. Eating balanced meals in the winter is important to keep a healthy immune system while viruses such as colds and the flu are common. By making sure you and your family are getting enough nutrients to keep your body healthy seems harder than it is. Creating a meal plan and going grocery shopping ahead of time will help alleviate some of the big stressors when it comes to making healthy meals. Having healthy foods that make it easier to whip up a meal readily accessible will do wonders when it comes to making dinner after a long day. Some things to grab while at the grocery store are foods that are rich in iron. Iron supports a healthy immune system and is vital for your health. Spinach is a great source of iron and is easily hidden in a lot of recipients such as smoothies and plates of pasta if you have children that don’t love vegetables. Other foods high in iron include leafy greens, red meat, and lentils.
Substitute Candy Snacks for Fruits and Veggies
Candy this time of year is about as easy to find as water and while it’s okay to splurge every now and then, too much sugar isn’t very good for anyone. Too much sugar can make you tired. After consuming sugar initially, you may experience a spike in energy as your blood sugars rise, however, that is ever fleeting because as your blood sugars drop, so do your energy levels. Instead of stocking your house with candies and sweets, opt for treats high in protein and carbs. This will keep you full longer while also aid in balancing your energy levels. Keeping fruits, vegetables and other healthy options readily available will make it easier to reach for a healthy snack instead of something that is packed with sugar. Not only is too much sugar a dentist’s worst nightmare it will soon be yours when you and family members are in pain from toothache from too much sugar rotting your teeth.
Make Sure Everyone is Getting Enough Sleep
Studies show that lack of sleep has a negative impact on your immune system. When you aren’t getting enough sleep, your immune system becomes compromised and can’t fight off any of the viruses’ it comes in contact with making you get sick. Once you’re sick if you don’t get good enough sleep it can even take longer to recover from your illness. If you’re feeling constantly fatigued you may want to consider upping your B12 intake. Up your intake of B12 from foods such as fish, milk, eggs, and cheese. Vitamin B12 contributes to a high functioning immune system and also helps reduce tiredness and fatigue.
Winter is a tough time when it comes to balancing and juggling everything from family parties and get together, running all the errands and just the overall hustle and bustle of the season and you don’t need any setbacks. By ensuring that you and your family are getting the nutrients you need your body will be able to better fight off viruses and keep a strong immune system. When you’re out and about make sure you’re grabbing healthy snacking alternatives to avoid eating too much sugar. Not only can too much sugar makes you feel sick, but it affects your blood sugars and can have long term effects. Being able to reach for something healthy at home will not only help you feel better in the moment but will have your immune system smiling. The holidays can be a busy time and getting home and in bed on time can be hard a lot of nights. However, good sleep is vital to maintaining a good and healthy immune system and will help fight the virus you come in contact with. Don’t let this winter get you and your family down, eat healthily and get plenty of rest.