Tips for Staying Healthy During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is often characterized by celebration and communal gatherings, yet it simultaneously disrupts established routines. Increased travel, packed social schedules, indulgent meals, and the seasonal rise in respiratory illnesses present significant challenges to maintaining health, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions.
To assist in navigating these complexities, insights from Dr. Hemalee Patel, who oversees the Impact Program at Amazon One Medical, offer guidance on preserving health during this busy period. Dr. Patel emphasizes the heightened importance of proactive healthcare in ensuring well-being during the holiday season.
The Impact Program empowers patients with personalized care plans tailored to their specific needs, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes. One Medical is a national primary care organization that provides integrated care, combining in-person visits with virtual services across over 20 regions in the United States. The Dallas-Fort Worth area hosts several offices, including locations in Addison Prestonwood Place, Mockingbird Station, Preston Center, and the Shops at Legacy.
With chronic conditions affecting approximately 51% of adults in the U.S., the need for coordinated care is critical. Dr. Patel highlights that the Impact Program employs a collaborative team approach, comprising clinicians, certified diabetes educators, and health and wellness coaches, working together to help patients achieve their health goals.
One of the program’s notable achievements includes an average reduction in blood sugar levels among diabetic patients by 2.3 points, a significant improvement given that even a one-point decrease correlates with a 21% reduced risk of mortality, a 14% decline in heart attacks, and a substantial reduction in complications like nerve damage.
The pressure of the holiday season may exacerbate health challenges, particularly for individuals managing conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. Festive gatherings often lead to busier schedules and increased consumption of unhealthy foods. Moreover, the winter months witness a spike in respiratory illnesses like the flu and COVID-19, which pose additional risks for vulnerable populations. Dr. Patel urges individuals to prioritize vaccinations, particularly for those in close contact with children, older adults, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Proactive health maintenance during the holidays involves thoughtful preparation rather than deprivation. Dr. Patel suggests several practical strategies:
1. Get Vaccinated: Ensure everyone eligible receives their flu vaccine prior to attending gatherings.
2. Maintain Routines: Strive for regular sleep patterns and incorporate physical activity into holiday plans to mitigate stress.
3. Make Nutritional Choices: Individuals managing chronic conditions should plan meals carefully, starting with whole foods and prioritizing hydration to help regulate appetite.
If traveling, it is advisable to prepare in advance. Dr. Patel recommends obtaining vaccinations before departure and encourages individuals to familiarize themselves with accessible healthcare options while traveling. One Medical members can easily arrange virtual care through the app, promoting continuity of care no matter the location.
In conclusion, whether the goal is to stay healthy during the holiday season or to manage chronic conditions year-round, One Medical presents flexible, patient-centered care solutions across the nation. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit health.amazon.com.
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