The holidays will soon be upon us!

I’m already getting Black Friday ads in my emails, and of course the stores are brimming with Christmas decorations and supplies!

Although the holidays are a time to share with loved ones and reflect on our blessings, unfortunately they are also a time when many people get run down, sick, and put on weight.

But that doesn’t have to happen to you! 

Because when you take steps to help preserve your health from now through January 1^st, you can feel great throughout the holidays (and all year round)!

Here are some smart strategies you can put into place:

1- Support your gut microbiome with a full-spectrum, complete probiotic blend like Super Shield multi-strain probiotic formula.  This is the time of year when we eat a lot of rich foods, refined carbs and sweets—which can take their toll on your gut microbiome and eventually lead to bloating, constipation and weakened immune function.   

2- Get enough sleep.  Seven to nine hours is what most people need.  If you’re having trouble sleeping try taking a warm bath, putting lavender essential oil on your pillow, having a snack of leftover turkey or sipping chamomile tea at night. 

3- Reduce stress.  Stress causes the protective mucosal barrier inside your intestines to become less effective at defending you against dangerous bacteria and viruses.  Stress-reduction measures include deep breathing, meditation, prayer, massage, infrared sauna, yoga, counseling and acupuncture.

4- Remember to exercise.  We all have a lot going on, but now is not the time to skip workouts.  Christmas will most assuredly arrive even if you don’t bake that last batch of cookies—do your workout instead.  That will also help keep the “Holiday 5” from attaching to your hips.

5- Keep alcohol consumption moderate.  There’s nothing wrong with having some “holiday cheer” but don’t overdo it, and follow up an alcoholic drink with a glass of water (regular or sparkling if you like).

6- Learn to say no.  You don’t have to accept all invitations that come your way or participate in every event. Learn to say no when your plate is already full to help keep your stress level low.

7- Learn to say yes.  When you’re stressed and overworked, if someone at work or home is offering their help, say yes! 

8- Incorporate healthy options into your holiday menus.  Include a crudité platter, fresh shrimp, or guacamole in your party appetizer lineup.  And for a lighter alternative to heavy mashed potatoes, try mashed cauliflower!  Cook cauliflower until tender and mash with butter, milk and seasoning just like you would potatoes.

9- Take time to remember those less fortunate than you.  You don’t have to do a lot to make a difference in someone’s life.  There are food pantries, clothing collections, toy drives and all kinds of ways to spread the true spirit of the holiday season.

10- Be thankful.  Remember to be thankful for your life, your health, your loved ones and the freedoms that you enjoy for which so many people gave their lives.

May God bless you.

To your health,

Sherry Brescia