'Tis the season for healthier habits

Did you know the added stress from holiday planning, shopping and family gatherings can trigger cortisol hormones that weaken your immune system? The holiday season can be an exciting time, but the chaos of being in go, go, go mode can put you at a greater risk of getting sick.

'Tis the season for choosing healthier habits, otherwise you may end up looking like Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer this holiday season. Here are different ways you can adjust your routine to prevent getting sick and fun ideas to help you stay active!

Boost your immune system

A strong immune system is the key to staying healthy. Skipping simple hygiene habits, like handwashing, is a common mistake made during the holiday season. Why? Many people are in a rush to complete their never-ending checklists while multitasking work, home and other miscellaneous activities.

You may think, "I'd never forget to clean my hands," but "hurry sickness" is a real problem that exposes all of us to contagious germs.

Protect yourself: Tips on how to reduce spreading viruses

• Cleaning your hands – using hand sanitizer is a convenient option, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says using soap and warm water is the most beneficial method.¹
• Sleeping – aim for seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Yale Medicine states that people who sleep less than seven hours every night are three times more likely to get sick.²
• Socializing mindfully – if you are feeling unwell do not be afraid to cancel personal plans or say "no" to work, friends or family-related social invites.

Common holiday sicknesses and risk factors

Viruses unfortunately spread faster during the holidays according to the CDC.³ The most common illnesses include COVID-19, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the flu. 'Tis the season for gift-giving, but germs are not on anyone's wish list.

Risk factors that can make a person more vulnerable to holiday sickness include age, compromised immune systems and stress levels. This is why it is important to follow the suggestions above to keep yourself healthy. Even if the risk factors don't apply to you, it's a good idea to practice these healthy habits.

Balancing between holiday indulgence and healthy habits

When you think about Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's, what do these celebrations all have in common? Food, food and FOOD. Between these three major holidays, weight gain feels almost unavoidable.⁴ Finding balance may seem difficult, but it is possible. Remember food is not the only culprit. Your daily activity level may decrease if you are spending too much time on the couch binge-watching holiday movies.

Science proves everything we put into our body significantly impacts our energy levels, brain function and overall mood. This means "You are what you eat" is not as silly as it sounds. According to the National Library of Medicine, consistency in healthy habits can prevent negative physical changes and effects from getting worse.⁵

Here are some ideas to help you enjoy holiday comfort foods and movies while balancing and maintaining consistent healthy habits.

Get festive with fitness

Exercise does not have to be boring. Moving your body can be fun, simple and... holiday-themed! Try adding at least 30 minutes of activity to your normal routine. This can include festive fitness ideas such as:

• Dancing to your favorite holiday songs or remixes.
• Walking around the neighborhood looking at decorations.
• Racing around the living room any time a character in a movie or show you are watching says "holiday" or another buzzword you choose.

Embrace smart hygiene when in social settings

Do not let getting sick (or the fear of getting sick) ruin the most magical part of the holiday season- social activities! Spreading holiday cheer during social settings instead of holiday germs is the perfect plan to keep your name on everyone's nice list. From covering your mouth when you sneeze and cough to washing your hands frequently, you can remain healthy this holiday season!

Allstate Benefits supplemental insurance products support healthy habits year-round, with wellness benefits for a wide variety of screenings and preventative tests. And if despite your best preventative efforts, you do require treatment or hospitalization for an accidental injury or illness, we're there to help with that too.

Contact an Allstate Benefits sales representative to learn more about how Allstate Benefits can help your company and your employees. We wish you a happy, healthy and germ-free holiday season!

Related Articles:

Tips for Reducing Holiday Stress

Don't Let the Flu Infect Your Business

Habits for a longer life