How to Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

The holidays can be the happiest time of the year—but it’s also the season when infectious diseases rear their ugly heads. Colder weather coupled with an influx of germs like the ones that cause the flu, colds and COVID-19 can set the stage for compromised health. It’s important to take steps to keep you and your loved ones as healthy as possible.

While viral threats vary each year, these tried-and-true strategies will help you stay healthy during the holiday season and beyond.

Practice Stellar Hygiene

Follow the hygiene practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Prevention & Control (CDC) for infection prevention. Properly wash your hands throughout the day with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds, to help prevent the spread of germs. Use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol when soap and water are not immediately available. Avoid sharing food, drinks and personal items with others. Deep clean your home regularly using an EPA-registered disinfectant proven to kill infectious diseases, paying special attention to high-touch areas and communal surfaces. 

Boost Immunity

Load up on colorful produce, which is packed with antioxidants that boost your immune system like vitamins A, C and D. Eat a handful of nuts and seeds each day—they contain minerals including zinc and selenium that also bolster immunity. Strive to get adequate sleep every night since deprivation weakens immunity. Avoid smoking altogether and stay away from secondhand smoke. Studies show that alcohol negatively affects your immune system, so eliminate—or at least minimize—alcohol intake.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Hydration is everything, especially during dry winter months. Water composes 60 percent of our total body weight, which means we need to stay hydrated to maintain this ratio. Proper hydration is essential for bodily functions, including the delivery of nutrients to our cells and eliminating toxins. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and double up when you exercise. If you plan to imbibe, alternate glasses of water in between alcoholic drinks.

Avoid Dry Mouth

It’s essential to keep your oral cavity hydrated to stave off uncomfortable dry mouth, which can harm oral health and lead to disease. When dryness strikes, use products like SALIVEA Hydrating Mouth Spray, which is enhanced with moisturizers and natural enzymes to help maintain the ideal oral environment. Make SALIVEA Gentle Mouthwash a part of your daily oral care routine to help soothe and moisten dry mouth tissue and support saliva’s natural defenses.

Prioritize Exercise

Even though the holidays can be busy, it’s more important than ever to make time for physical activity. Regular exercise is essential for healthy living. It reduces blood pressure, boosts heart health, and helps prevent chronic illnesses and diseases. Exercise also promotes circulation, which bolsters immunity, and releases endorphins to reduce holiday stress and improve your mood. If time is a factor, try splitting your regular workout into two sessions or sneak jogs around the block when you have a short break.

Manage Stress

Holiday business and end of year deadlines can add to normal stressors. Take a break whenever you feel overwhelmed or stressed out. Set aside time each day to practice stress management and do at least one thing that makes you feel happy and relaxed. Go for a walk, have a cup of tea, get out in nature, read, watch a movie, hit a yoga class, meditate, spend time with pets or connect socially.

These tips will help you stay healthy while making the most of your holiday season. Visit this link to learn about SALIVEA oral care products that soothe dry mouth while supporting the natural defenses that saliva provides.