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The holidays are fast approaching! Here are some helpful tips for a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season.
Have a designated driver.
Because holiday parties often serve alcohol, it is important to plan ahead. A driver with a 0.08 percent blood-alcohol content is 11 times more likely to be involved in a fatal car crash than a sober driver. In fact, nearly 18,000 Americans are killed in a drunken driving accident each year, and more DUI citations are issued on New Year’s Eve than on any other night of the year. So if you are attending holiday parties this year make the proper arrangements ahead of time; select a designated driver or stick to public transportation.
Avoid holiday weight gain.
Americans gain an average of 7 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Here are some easy tips for avoiding holiday weight gain. Make socializing (instead of eating) the main focus of your evening. Limit your alcohol consumption, as a 12 oz beer has 110-149 calories, a glass of wine has 75-80 calories, and cocktails have 120-200 calories. Treat yourself to one or two holiday treats to satisfy your cravings, but don’t overindulge in high-calorie foods. If you are attending a buffet-style dinner, control your portions. And as always, use your discretion when deciding what foods to eat. If you’re hungry, opt for an unlimited serving of raw vegetables over one bite of chocolate cake. Vegetables, fruit and whole wheat products have high fiber content, which will make you feel full faster.
Budget your spending.
In these poor economic times, it is important to use responsible spending habits. Before you hit the stores, budget your finances, make a detailed shopping list, compare retail prices on the Internet, and search for coupons. When you’re out shopping, do not exceed your spending limit and purchase only those items on your list. Take advantage of holiday sales and use coupons for additional store discounts.
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