With the holidays right around the corner, keeping safe and secure should be a top priority. Whether it comes to avoiding tempting foods or keeping warm when outside, maintaining your physical health requires taking the right steps to keep everyone healthy and happy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer the following tips to help you and your loved ones make this holiday season safe as well as fun.

Keep Stress At Bay

Too much stress can negatively impact your physical health and well-being, and financial stress commonly accompanies gift buying. It’s the thought that counts, so try to find presents for your loved ones that come from the heart. You can also try your hand at homemade gifts to save money, and many people find creative projects relaxing, too.

Practice Safe Food Prep

When preparing holiday meals, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid spreading germs. Also, take steps to avoid cross-contamination between foods. Keep raw foods isolated and always thoroughly clean surfaces such as counters and cutting boards.

Travel in Safety

If you plan on having a drink or two at a gathering, designate a driver or use a ride share service. If you see loved ones attempting to drive drunk, intervene; ask for their keys, offer them a place to stay, or take additional measures to keep others safe. Everyone’s physical safety is at risk when a drunk driver is on the road.

Visit the Doctor for a Checkup

If it’s been a long time since you’ve seen a doctor, schedule a checkup with your primary care physician. He or she can also offer some additional healthy living tips while ensuring you are in good health for the holidays. You can also ask about getting a flu shot, which helps protect your health and the health of others.

For additional health tips, check out this informative video from the CDC. If you need expert medical care from a friendly team of health professionals, Patients First Medical Clinic in Anchorage, AK, is invested in their patients’ health and physical wellness. That’s why they offer a wide range of services from primary care to management of chronic illnesses such as diabetes. They are dedicated to serving patients throughout all stages of life with personalized attention, and their extended hours are especially convenient for the busy holiday season. Visit their website for more information, or call (907) 333-7425 to make an appointment.