The doctor listed ways to avoid health problems during the holidays

Holidays are a time of joy and fun, but for some they are also associated with a number of health risks. Often during this period, problems arise related to overloading, overheating, or excessive consumption of food and alcohol. A doctor practicing in the UK shared with Medical Xpress magazine recommendations on how to avoid the most common illnesses and injuries during the holidays.

During the holidays, you can easily encounter a number of allergens, such as pollen, mold, or plants and flowers presented as gifts. Nuts can be one of the most common causes of allergic reactions. There may also be a particularly acute issue with scented candles, which can cause unpleasant reactions in people with respiratory diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Holiday excesses can lead to increased cholesterol levels and weight gain, which increases the risk of heart disease. It is important to control your calorie intake to avoid harmful health effects. Experts recommend limiting high-calorie treats during the holidays so as not to overload the body.

Frequent consumption of spicy and fatty foods, as well as alcohol, in turn, can cause stomach upset and digestive problems. In case of severe heartburn or other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if the symptoms persist.

According to a study by Swedish scientists, increased stress during the holidays can increase the risk of heart disease. Stress, financial problems, and an unbalanced diet contribute to increased stress on the body. Experts say that it is important to pay attention to rest and not ignore the symptoms in the form of chest pain.

Traditional New Year's dishes turned out to be harmful: how to eat with health benefits

Healthy alternatives to unhealthy foods

There may also be cases of poisoning due to insufficiently fried food, poor hygiene, or as a result of storing food for too long. In this case, it is important to seek medical help in time to avoid dehydration and complications.

In case of contact with animals, it is recommended to beware of possible diseases transmitted through lice bites or ticks that can get to humans. This can lead to skin conditions, including Lyme disease. In addition, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, coronavirus and norovirus can lead to an increase in morbidity in winter. According to the expert, vaccination and prevention can reduce the risks.

During the festive period, serious threats to health, especially for children, are not only poisoning, but also swallowing small objects or food. It is important to keep an eye on small objects, especially if there are children in the house.

The specialist emphasizes that during the holidays it is important to remember about safety and not forget about risk prevention. He also recommends planning some things in advance to reduce or avoid risks altogether.

On December 8, Samantha Harden, Associate Professor of Human Nutrition, Food and Exercise at Virginia Polytechnic University, spoke about ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the holidays. She recommended thinking about health not only as exercise or nutrition. The specialist named six components of well—being that must be maintained in a normal state - happiness, relationships, meaning and purpose, character and virtue, as well as material and financial stability.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.