Bring a Healthy Dish
Most holiday dishes are filled with saturated fat, sugar and other not-so-healthy ingredients. But, if you’re prioritizing your heart health this season, there are many recipes that have all the flavor you crave during the holidays without the “bad” ingredients. Here are some of our favorites from the American Heart Association!
While grocery shopping, we also recommend looking for heart-check certified foods and ingredients. Learn more about the heart-check program here.
Limit Alcohol
Similar to indulgent foods, alcohol and holiday festivities can often go hand in hand. While there is nothing wrong with having a cocktail or two, we suggest limiting your intake. Drinking too much alcohol can affect your sleep, cause unnecessary stress, lead to overeating and many other things that can negatively impact your health. Along with drinking in moderation, choosing drinks with less mixers and sugar can help you have a healthier holiday season this year.
Prioritize Sleep
Between parties and events, shopping and cooking, and the long-awaited arrival of Santa Claus, sleep is probably the last item on your holiday to-do list. Unfortunately, when your sleep schedule suffers, so does nearly every other part of your body. Lack of sleep can lead to heightened cortisol production, anxiety and depression, a weakened immune system and low energy levels. This year, give yourself the gift of sleep this holiday season by aiming for seven to nine hours every night.
Manage Stress
While a happy time of year for most, the holidays tend to cause unwanted stress. Stress, especially for those living with heart disease, can be extremely detrimental. Throughout the next few weeks, find ways to de-stress, like going for a walk, listening to music, practicing yoga or meditation, and spending time alone between events.