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From festive celebrations to special moments with family, the most wonderful time of the year is here! While the holiday season offers plenty of opportunities for comfort and joy, it can easily lose its sparkle when stress, sickness and strain take over. So, here are a few tips courtesy of some WMC medical professionals, to help keep the season wonderful. 

 

Prioritize your heart. Staying heart healthy during the holidays can be challenging with special treats, indulgent meals and a busier-than-usual schedule. But it’s not impossible, according to Brian Long, M.D., Vanderbilt Heart, Chief of Cardiology at Williamson Medical Center (WMC). “The holidays can be a busy time when people get out of their usual diet and exercise routines,” Dr. Long said. “It’s likely to happen to some extent, but find the time to move, even if it’s for a shorter duration, and practice moderation.” 

 

Safely deck the halls. Combine holiday decorating and inclement weather with a dash of stress and a pinch of cold and flu season — and you’ve got a recipe for a trip to the ER. “During the holidays, a lot of health issues are related to stress, so make sure you’re taking advantage of stress-reduction strategies: eating healthy and getting exercise,” says Tanner Boyd, M.D., medical director of WMC’s emergency department. He advised taking precautions to avoid preventable accidents, such as falls on icy surfaces or from ladders, and make sure you don’t let the busy season crowd out time for yourself.

 

Make merry in moderation. Making healthy choices during the holidays doesn’t mean missing out on your favorites — but it might mean re-framing your focus. “Rather than a weight loss goal, concentrate on weight maintenance,” says Lisa Mathews, a registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager for WMC. Create healthier versions of your favorite recipes by reducing sugar or subbing out butter and oil for healthier options such as applesauce, mashed bananas or pumpkin puree. “In most recipes, you can cut the sugar in half and won’t even miss it,” Mathews says. 

 

Whatever the season brings, Williamson Medical Center is here for you, providing exceptional healthcare close to home. Learn more about what WMC has to offer at williamsonmedicalcenter.org.

Seek care. “According to the American Heart Association, death from a cardiac event is almost 5% higher during the holidays,” Dr. Long says, sometimes because people wait to seek medical care until after the holidays. If you experience chest discomfort, call 911 immediately, rather than driving to the hospital yourself. Waiting to seek medical attention can result in greater damage to the heart. 

 

Reach out. “While the holidays are a happy time for some, the season is an unhappy time for others,” Dr. Boyd says. Talking with a trusted friend can help, but the Tennessee Red Line (1-800-889-9789) is also available 24/7 for those suffering from substance abuse or a mental health crisis. 

 

Rest up. If you get a cold or come down with a virus, Dr. Boyd advises resting and keeping a healthy distance from others. “Be a good human, and don’t spread it to your friends and family,” he says.

 

Scan the spread. Before filling your plate at a party or meal, take stock of the entire offering. Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, Mathews suggested.

 

Lighten up. If your celebration includes alcohol, Mathews advises opting for lighter versions of your favorite cocktails with low-calorie or lower-sugar mixers.