If you need to gain weight:

 

Remember to keep up with small, frequent meals and snacks.  Sometimes more activities going on might cause you to skip the ‘frequent feedings’! You can’t afford to miss opportunities for nutrition so keep healthy, high Calorie snacks handy: nuts, trail mix, fruitcake and eggnog!

Try not to stress about things – it can use up valuable nutrition. Try to keep things simple, ask for help, and delegate shopping and housework. This is a great opportunity to rediscover the real importance of the holidays.

 

 

 

If you need to boost your immunity and build new blood cells:

 

Focus on protein: include lean meats, poultry, milk, yogurt, eggs, cheese and seafood whenever possible. Nuts and legumes (the starchy kinds of beans) help too.

 

Limit added sugar: “empty Calories” from sugar stress the immune  system so stick to healthy sweets like fruit dishes and other immune boosting foods like vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Some sweet treats won’t hurt but be mindful!

 

And always remember safe kitchen sanitation, food prep and handling. Everyone needs to wash hands frequently. Avoid crowds and people with colds or flu whenever you can.

 

For all of these, gentle and enjoyable physical activity will also help your progress. Take walks with family and friends when you can. Hugging must be good physical activity too, don’t you think?!?

 

Happy, healthy holiday wishes to you all,

Lynne