Hello, this is Manan Trivedi. Sorry we are a little late with today's edition but I needed some more research time to make this a thorough diary.
Running a campaign involves a lot of asking – contributions, volunteer work, etc. As a way of giving back for all this asking I thought it would be nice to occasionally post some tips and advice on one of my favorite topics – preventive medicine and wellness. Despite major misgivings that I have regarding the health reform legislation, I must say that it does a decent job at shifting the healthcare system a little more towards prevention and healthier lifestyles. This, in my opinion, is key if we are to have real, comprehensive healthcare reform.
So, in this our second Healthcare Forum diary installment (here’s the link to the first one), I wanted to discuss ways to stay healthy and keep a focus on wellness during the holidays. As many of you know, the holiday season can often be a time when things slip away from you and overindulgence can lead to major health problems. In fact, there is even a medical condition known as “Holiday Heart Syndome” that refers to heart rhythm irregularities that occur after excessive drinking.
Here are some tips on ways to maintain your health during the holidays:
Moderate your drinking and don’t drink and drive: The holiday season is often a time when people think its OK to have that extra drink (or three). However, the key is moderation – and moderate drinking, as defined by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, is defined as no more than two drinks and should not be considered a daily average. An easy way to help you moderate as well as maintain proper hydration is to have a glass of water in between drinks of alcohol. And, of course, if you are planning to drink at a holiday function, make sure you have a designated driver or some way to get home at night that doesn’t involve getting behind the wheel.
Be active: Try to find ways to stay active during the holiday season. Go out for walks with your family or find some other physical activities that everyone can get involved and try to make them part of your holiday routine.
Eat Smart: Overeating and excess do not have to be holiday traditions. There are tons of great recipes out there for holiday dishes that are low in fat and calories. Here is great link to the CDC page on eating healthy during the holidays
Wash Hands: The flu is still going around and the holidays are a season when more people interact with each other so it is just as important if not more that you remember to wash your hands to avoid the spread of germs. It may sound simple but is a proven fact that clean hands save lives.
Manage Stress: I saved this one for last because I think it is so important, but often overlooked. Plus I know that my campaign staff will appreciate it.
We all know how stressful the holidays can be. Some ways to keep your stress low are to get at least eight hours of sleep every night (preferably not on someone’s pull out couch), find some time for yourself every day, do something quiet that you enjoy and relaxes you (like reading), and plan ahead so you balance your time and do not over commit yourself.
I hope this was helpful and leads to a happy and healthier holiday season for all of you. Like last time I will stick around for a bit if there are any questions or comments.
Lastly, here is a fun link to the CDC’s "12 Ways to Health" Holiday Song.
Happy Holidays!
-- Manan
Manan Trivedi is a primary care physician, healthcare policy researcher and an Iraq War veteran running for congress in Pennsylvania's 6th district.