Deck the Halls (With Immunity Boosters): Pharmacists Weigh In on How to Stay Healthy for the Holidays in 2023

 

Deck the Halls (With Immunity Boosters): Pharmacists Weigh In on How to Stay Healthy for the Holidays in 2023

The jingle bells are chiming, the eggnog is brewing, and the promise of festive cheer hangs in the frosty air. But before you get swept away in the holiday whirlwind, let's pause and consider this: the festive season often coincides with a rise in common ailments, leaving us sniffling and coughing instead of caroling. Fear not, merry friends! Your neighbourhood pharmacists are here to dispense not just medication, but a treasure trove of wisdom on how to navigate the joyous chaos with your health shining brighter than a fairy on top of the tree.

1. Sleep, the Elves' Secret Weapon:

Think of sleep as the ultimate immunity booster, a superhero cape for your body's defences. "When you're well-rested," reveals Dr. Sarah Jones, a pharmacist with over 15 years of experience, "your body produces more infection-fighting white blood cells. So, even amidst the late-night wrapping bonanzas and frantic Christmas cookie baking, aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Your body (and your grumpy Aunt Matilda) will thank you for it."

2. Handwashing: Hum a Festive Jingle While You Scrub:

It may seem humdrum, but Dr. Jones insists that hand hygiene is the silent guardian of your health this season. "Think of all the merry surfaces you touch," she says, "door handles, shopping carts, even your adorable nephew's sticky fingers. Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is your frontline defence against unwanted viruses and bacteria. Hum a festive jingle while you scrub; it'll make it more fun!"

3. Don't Ditch the Greens, Even for Grandma's Famous Pudding:

We all know the holidays are synonymous with delicious, often calorie-laden treats. But pharmacists weigh in on how to stay healthy for the holidays by reminding us that greens deserve a place on the merry-go-round of festive delights. "Think of it as a nutritional safety net," says Dr. David Lee, a pharmacist specialising in preventative healthcare. "Pack in those vitamins and minerals with a hearty salad or a side of roasted sprouts. They'll keep your energy levels up and your immune system strong, so you can power through all the caroling and gift-giving."

4. Hydrate: Ditch the Mulled Wine for Water Wonders:

Dehydration can play a mischievous trick, mimicking the symptoms of a cold or flu. "Before you reach for the cough drops," warns Dr. Lee, "grab a glass of water! Aim for eight glasses a day, even if you're feeling tempted by all the bubbly beverages. Remember, water is the true hero of hydration, not the mulled wine that might leave you feeling a bit worse for wear."

5. Self-Care: Hang the Mistletoe of Mental Well-being:

The holidays can be stressful, even for the most optimistic among us. Financial pressures, family dynamics, and the sheer overwhelm of it all can take a toll on our mental well-being. "Self-care is not selfish, especially during the holidays," says Dr. Jones. "Schedule some downtime for yourself, whether it's a relaxing bath by the crackling fire, a brisk walk in the crisp winter air, or simply curling up with a good book. Taking care of your mental health will boost your overall resilience and help you navigate the holiday season with more joy and less stress."

Bonus Tip: Pharmacists' Toolkit for Festive Remedies:

While prevention is always the best medicine, even the healthiest elves can catch a cold. If you do find yourself feeling under the weather, your local pharmacist can be your one-stop shop for advice and over-the-counter remedies.For coughs and congestion: Dr. Lee recommends pharmacist-approved cough suppressants and decongestants. Remember, antibiotics won't help with viral infections, so consult your doctor if symptoms worsen.

For sore throats: Gargle with warm salt water or suck on lozenges to soothe the irritation.

For pain and fever: Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage these symptoms.

Remember, your pharmacist is more than just a pill dispenser. They are a valuable resource for information and support, especially during the busy holiday season. Don't hesitate to ask them questions, seek advice, and utilize their expertise to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy and happy throughout the festive period.

So, this holiday season, embrace the joy, the laughter, and the delicious food (in moderation, of course!). But also, remember to prioritize your health and well-being. With these tips from your friendly neighbourhood pharmacists, you can navigate the festive frenzy with a healthy dose of cheer and resilience. Happy holidays.