Doctors reveal 8 health mistakes most people make while holidaying

A lot of people skip meals when they are on a holiday and end up overeating later. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

Holidays can be disruptive, and it doesn’t always seem possible to make healthy choices. Even small, shared mistakes can quietly affect your health. Understanding these habits and making small changes can allow you to enjoy the season while still feeling great.

The holiday season is supposed to be a time of celebration, fellowship and rest. But for many of us, it quietly is the time when our healthful habits start to affect. With holiday parties, mid-week nights that end in the wee hours and non-stop obligations, travel stress and all-consuming social commitments, it’s easy to let your self-care take a back seat without ever even realizing. What begins as “just a couple days off schedule” can end up leaving you feeling exhausted, bloated, run-down or even ill by the holidays’ end.

According to Manish Paschal, MD, preventive medicine and lifestyle health specialist, staying healthy over the holidays doesn’t mean you have to be overly strict with your eating habits or miss out on the fun.

“Lack of sleep, overindulging without moderation, neglecting hydration or giving up on movement entirely … they can subtly chip away at one’s physical and mental health. Learning from those mistakes is the first step to preventing them. With some careful planning, you can have a jolly holiday season that doesn’t tank your energy, immune system and well-being,” he says.

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Skipping Meals to “Save Calories”

Skipping meals is a common cause of overeating later. Instead, take regular balanced meals with some protein and fiber to mitigate hunger and stabilize blood sugar.

“For 350 days a year, everyone knows they should exercise and be active. But during the holidays there’s this unsaid rule that says for two weeks we all collectively decide to forgo any reason to move our bodies,” says the doctor.

Energy can drop sharply with complete cessation of activity. Instead, shoot for short walks, mild workouts or socializing active gatherings as opposed to all-or-nothing thinking.

Overindulging Without Mindfulness

Eating mindlessly can leave us feeling discomforted and guilty. Slow down, enjoy favourite foods, and stop when you are comfortably full — not stuffed.

Neglecting Sleep

Late nights add up quickly. Protect sleep as much as you can and prioritize rest when you can to support immunity, mood.

Forgetting to Hydrate

Thirst signals are also dulled by cold temperatures and alcohol. Have water on hand and drink enough water to prevent dehydration, intermixing with alcohol.

Overloading Your Schedule

Constant social obligations increase stress. Saying no when necessary and leaving space to breathe for rest and recovery is the most crucial aspect for the wellbeing of your health.

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Ignoring Stress Signals

Holiday stress is real. Try some easy stress-reducing habits like deep breathing, rest breaks, or personal quiet time.

Abandoning Healthy Habits Entirely

Perfection isn’t required. Hold on to a few keystone habits — daily movement or vegetables, for example — for grounding.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.