Cenegenics Carolinas Offers Top Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

CHARLESTON, S.C., Dec. 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Age Management Physicians from Cenegenics Carolinas, a preventive health and age management medical facility, today released their top tips for staying healthy over the 2011 holiday season.

Exercise

Staying active during the holiday season can prove to be a tough challenge.

Tip: Try to exercise for 10 minutes three times a day. A great 10-minute workout can include walking up and down stairs or jumping rope.

Drink Plenty of Water

The number one cause of daytime fatigue is dehydration.

Tip: Try to drink eight ounces of water a day and consume foods and beverages high in water.

Monitor Alcohol Consumption

Alcoholic drinks are loaded with calories and little or no nutritional value.

Tip: Moderation and smart beverage choices. Avoid beverages like eggnog and rum and coke. Instead, opt for a light beer or vodka mixed with sparkling water.

Get Enough Sleep

With the stress of the holidays sleeping can be a challenge.

Try these tips for a good night's rest:

• Avoid foods and drinks that contain caffeine after 2 p.m.
• Set the room temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Try foods that help promote sleep.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Choose a breakfast that includes protein and healthy fats and don't skip breakfast as this can lead to overeating.

Avoid the Afternoon Lull

To beat the mid-afternoon crash, start the day with the proper nourishment and avoid heavy lunches. If in need of an energy boost, try taking a brisk walk.

Conquer Temptation

Eat a small meal before going out and plan for temptation. Studies show that when people plan out exactly what they'll do when temptation arises, they are two to three times more likely to achieve their dietary goals.

Dealing with Holiday Stress

As our cortisol (stress hormone) rises, it compromises the production of other important hormones such as DHEA, pregnenolone and progesterone. Try to increase these hormone supplements during stressful times.

Prevent Colds

Nothing's worse than getting a cold during the "most wonderful time of the year." Take precautions by eating plenty of immune-boosting foods, take a multi-vitamin and get plenty of sunshine to maintain optimal health.

Spice up the Holidays

Studies show that adding certain spices to food can help boost metabolism including: cayenne pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, black pepper and other hot peppers.

SOURCE Cenegenics Carolinas