Stay Healthy During the Holidays

Tips from Your Primary Care Provider

The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and celebration—but it can also be a time of stress, indulgence, and illness. Between busy schedules, big meals, cold weather, and travel, it’s easy to let your health take a backseat. But it doesn’t have to.
Here are practical, physician-approved tips to help you and your family stay healthy and well throughout the holidays.

1. Don’t Skip Your Routine Checkups

Before the year ends, consider scheduling your annual physical or wellness exam, especially if you haven’t yet. Your provider can:

• Review your medications
• Update vaccinations
• Manage chronic conditions
• Provide health screenings
• Help you set goals for the new year

🗓 Bonus: Many insurance plans reset in January—use your benefits before deductibles start over!

2. Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccines

Cold and flu season overlaps with the holidays. Make sure you and your family are protected with:

• Flu vaccine
• Pneumonia vaccine

Ask your primary care provider which vaccines are right for you.

3. Manage Stress and Prioritize Mental Health

The holidays can be emotionally taxing for many. Be proactive about your mental health:

• Get enough sleep
• Set realistic expectations
• Limit overspending
• Take breaks when overwhelmed
• Talk to your provider if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or grief

Remember: Mental health is just as important as physical health.

4. Eat Smart (But Still Enjoy)

You can still enjoy holiday meals and treats without overindulging:

• Eat a healthy snack before parties to avoid overeating
• Stay hydrated
• Balance rich foods with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
• Watch your alcohol intake

Moderation—not restriction—is key.

5. Stay Active, Even in the Cold

With colder weather and holiday schedules, it’s easy to skip exercise. Aim for:

• 30 minutes of movement most days (walking, stretching, dancing, etc.)
• Family-friendly physical activities like sledding, walking after dinner, or dancing indoors

6. Practice Good Hygiene and Illness Prevention

Simple steps reduce the spread of germs:

• Wash hands often
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Avoid close contact if you’re sick
• Don’t travel if you have fever or flu-like symptoms
• Keep hand sanitizer nearby when on-the-go

7. Plan Medication and Travel Wisely

If you’re traveling:

• Pack all medications
• Refill prescriptions before you leave
• Bring health insurance info and a list of current medications
• Know where to find urgent care or emergency services at your destination

Enjoy the season with confidence and care.

Your health is a gift worth protecting—not just during the holidays, but all year long.

🎁 Need an appointment before the holidays?

Call our clinic today to schedule a visit, get your flu shot, or refill prescriptions.

Get additional Care and Wellness Tips here.

Learn about healthy nutrition during the holidays here.