It is no secret that the holiday season can be a difficult time for many people. The stress of traveling, cooking, spending time with family and friends, and wrapping up work before the break can take its toll on your dental health.
The holiday season is a great time to take care of yourself, both inside and out. Here are some things you can do to stay healthy, confident, and beautiful this winter season.
1. Change your toothbrush regularly
Make sure the bristles are soft so that they won’t harm your gums or damage any teeth as you brush. You should also replace it often because all those germs sitting on the brush could contaminate your next meal. Replace every three months for best results.
2. Don’t forget to floss during the break
The holidays are especially dangerous times for dental hygiene since plenty of sugary food usually goes unbridled by regular brushing alone. Make sure that plaque and tartar aren’t building up on your teeth and gums by flossing at least once a day.
3. Maintain a healthy diet while traveling
The holidays are full of parties, family dinners, and lots of treats. It is important to stay hydrated throughout the season to avoid being tempted to drink too much alcohol or caffeinated beverages during gatherings. Opt for healthier options such as vegetables and fresh fruit at meals instead of fried foods and sweets. You can also ask your host or server if there’s anything they can do about high-fat ingredients in your meal. Lastly, remember that moderation is key: don’t put yourself into a food coma just because it’s the holiday season.
4. Visit your dentist regularly
No one wants to deal with cavities or gum disease, so make sure you visit a dental clinic for a cleaning and exam around the same time every year. If plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, they can cause decay, leading to cavities. Gum disease is also caused by the bacteria buildup of tartar and plaque, but it may also occur if you’ve been neglecting your dental hygiene routine. If left untreated, gum disease could lead to tooth loss and bad breath. To prevent these conditions from occurring in the first place, be sure to brush twice a day and schedule regular cleanings at least once per year.
5. Exercise regularly
Getting some exercise before the new year helps you stay in shape and reduces feelings of stress. You can go for a walk, bike ride, or jog with friends to stay healthy during the holidays. It also helps you sleep better at night so that you’ll be well-rested enough to enjoy your time off from work. If going out isn’t really your cup of tea, then exercise indoors instead by doing yoga, Pilates, or even just a good old-fashioned workout video.
6. Relax… it’s the holiday season, after all
Being constantly on the go is stressful as it is, so take some time to relax now and then this holiday season. Catch up with friends over coffee or tea, have a spa day with your sisters, mother, girlfriends, or daughters, or curl up with a good book in the comfort of your own home. Just don’t forget to practice self-care so you can enjoy all the festivities this season has to offer.
7. Get some rest
Between all the holiday festivities, not to mention work and school schedules, it’s easy to neglect sleep this time of year. But remember: a well-rested mind is a healthy mind. Keeping up on your beauty sleep is also crucial since you don’t want those dark circles or fine lines from catching anyone’s attention during family photos. Schedule your sleep around the holidays by adjusting both your bedtime and wake-up time as needed. Make sure that there are no distractions such as TV or laptop screens so that you can fall asleep faster and have more energy throughout the day.
8. Take care of yourself from within
Taking care of yourself starts with self-care — not just skin deep but inside out. Make sure you take in enough water and foods packed with essential nutrients to keep your body strong. This not only helps you stay energized but taking care of your health is an excellent way to relieve stress this holiday season.
9. Don’t forget that anything can happen anytime
While the holidays are a wonderful time for family bonding and catching up on everything happening in everyone’s lives, it’s important to be aware that anything can happen at any time, especially when everyone has gathered around during dinner or after-dinner festivities. Be ready by making a safety plan with someone who has agreed to take charge during an emergency.
Staying healthy during the holidays is not only crucial for your own well-being, but it’s also crucial to ensure that you’re around to enjoy all of your time with family and friends. Don’t wait until after a busy day to take anyone’s health into consideration: plan by sticking to a balanced diet, visiting your dentist regularly, and exercising as much as possible this holiday season.
