Medical Minutes

Dr. Tonia Mason - December 2011 Living Well Award Winner

December 2011: Holiday Gatherings Could Take A Toll On Your Health

The holiday season is here and with that comes lots of parties, but if you’re not careful, it could take a toll on your health. Binge drinking of alcohol is a growing problem at holiday gatherings. Too much at one time can cause many things such as alcohol poisoning, seizures, and have long term health effects.

Dr. Sunil K. Lal
Gastroenterologist

Healthy Holiday Season Tips

• Drink in moderation. Many holiday drinkers don’t drink often, so they have a lower alcohol tolerance
• Choose the number of drinks you will consume prior to attending the party
• Designate a driver before the party begins
• Hydrate by making sure you always have a bottle of water with you and try to drink 8 – 8oz. glasses of water
• Stock your kitchen with healthy foods
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes
• Eat something small and healthy prior to attending a holiday party
• For appetizers, take a sample of three or four of your favorites and eat them off of a small plate or napkin
• Enjoy Yourself

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Drinking During the Holidays