The time to finally enjoy the December holidays is almost here. With the year-end fatigue kicking in, the holidays are exactly what many are in need of right now.
In fact, the countdown has already started.
After waiting the whole year for these holidays to unwind and have fun, the last thing you need is to have your body fail you during the festivities.
According to Pharma Dynamics, more than 1.7 million South Africans may be prone to a medical condition called leisure sickness affecting mainly workaholics, overachievers and perfectionists.
Leisure sickness strikes when on a long-awaited holiday and leaves its victims experiencing anything from nausea to migraines, muscular pains, colds and flu-like symptoms, which could last for weeks.
Whether you're hopping between provinces or getting stamps in your passport, keeping your health in check is a key part of enjoying your holiday. If you don't want pesky flu, upset stomach or some other health issue to ruin your festive spirit, try some of these quick and easy health hacks.
Below, Arvind Raichur, CEO and co-founder of Eagle Intelligent Health provides five tips on ways to navigate through the festive frenzy without falling ill or even working too hard to keep healthy.
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Hydration = happiness
With all the festive fiestas that come up during December, it's easy to forget that hydration is critical for your bodily functions. Whether you're dealing with dry aeroplane air or sitting poolside with a drink that comes in a coconut, water will help regulate your body temperature, keep your joints lubricated and make sure your organs are functioning properly.
Don’t be a tummy terrorist
Nothing will wreck your period of rest and relaxation faster than spending your vacation on the porcelain throne. So be careful. Skip the tap water, steer clear of unwashed fruits, and play it safe with your food choices. You may be a thrill seeker but after a certain age, your stomach is not. Try out the local cuisine but with a side of caution.
GPs on speed dial
Health hassles don’t have to turn your festive cheer into fear. Telehealth apps can make managing your physical wellbeing as easy as tapping your screen. Telehealth ensures on-demand access to qualified professionals at the touch of a button. That makes it perfect for holidays because your GP is always in your pocket.
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Become captain clean
If the pandemic taught us anything, it is the importance of hygiene. Kick germs to the curb by embracing the power of regular handwashing and some hand sanitiser. Given all the things we touch, especially while travelling, keeping clean will is the best way to keep your immune system in top shape.
Embrace the power of a nap
Get some sleep! Catch those Zzz's like the ghosts chasing Pacman. It's been a long year, and your body deserves a rest. What’s more, a rested body fights illness like a heavyweight boxer, whereas a tired body fights like a chihuahua.
Wherever direction the holiday wind blows you, make sure you stay healthy to have a happy festive season.
