Along with a New Year, comes new resolutions for many people. It is around this time that many set health goals heading into the new year. However, a lot of people set massive goals which at first may seem to be difficult to achieve and prove to be discouraging. Rigid day-to-day schedules and priorities also make it difficult for a lot of people to maintain these goals. In this article, we are going to share a few small achievable goals that will help you break that cycle.

Make Breakfast a Priority

Doctors and health specialists at DOCS Urgent Care in Fairfield, Norwalk, or Bridgeport understand stress and the importance of breakfast, yet 31 million Americans skip it. Breakfast provides you with a healthy diet of fiber, calcium, protein, and whole-grains. Breakfast enables you to have more energy, reduces the risk of type two diabetes, prevents heart disease, and keep colds and flus away.  

Try to Refrain from Eating a Lot of Sugar

Studies have repeatedly shown the dangers associated with consuming sugar. Sugar causes many health issues including heart disease, tooth decay, and an increase in weight. However, the scariest part is that it increases the likelihood of developing diabetes. It is difficult to refrain from sugar usage due to sugar being added in many food products out there. Sugar also comes in many alias including high fructose corn syrup, dried cane syrup, molasses, sucrose. Being aware of these products and avoiding them will positively impact your health.

Take a More Proactive Role in Your Health

About 45 percent of Americans live with a chronic health issue. A visit to your primary care physician for an annual checkup may offset the development of a chronic disease. Any time an abnormal appearance or feeling occurs, proper examination and treatment plans can be made to prevent the condition from worsening. A comprehensive lab test from a urgent care provider will not only be inexpensive, but contribute to better health.

Get Plenty of Exercise

While recent studies have shown that exercise alone will not contribute to weight loss, however, the benefits of increased bone and muscle strength, a reduced risk of chronic disease, better mood, and mental health is more than enough reason to still exercise. Exercising does not have to be as daunting and physically overwhelming as people make it out to be. Simple tasks such as taking the stairs instead of an elevator or walking to the local shop instead of driving provide great health benefits in the long run. It is important to realize that making exercise part of your weekly routine will gradually lead to a healthier appearance and lifestyle.

Sleep Makes a Huge Difference

Neglecting sleep has been linked to increasing the risk of chronic disease. Conditions ranging from depression, mood disorders, diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease increase in development

The cold weather, frequent travel, and increase of indoor social interactions during the holidays can pose a threat to the health and safety of our loved ones; that’s DOCS Urgent Care in Fairfield, Norwalk, & Bridgeport put together a comprehensive guide to a Happy, Healthy Holiday season, to keep you and your loved ones safe this year.

Travel

The Holiday season means travel season. In order to stay safe on the roads this winter, it’s best to start by inspecting your vehicle to make sure it doesn’t have any issues. If you’re experiencing any hardware issues with your car, take your vehicle to a local mechanic to have everything checked out and approved. And no matter what season it is, make sure every passenger in the vehicle is buckled up. To avoid any distraction, put your cell phone away, and keep both hands free at all times.

For those taking public or commercial transportation, remember to be careful of what you touch; public restrooms, doorknobs, armrests and tabletops are germ and bacteria hot spots. To avoid contamination, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face and mouth, and carry hand sanitizer with you wherever you go, especially if you are traveling long distances, as your immune system may be dealing with germs and bacteria it has never encountered before.

Lastly, it is crucial to keep a first aid kit on you at all times. Travel companion kits usually contain this, and there are a large variety of commercially available first aid travel kits which are designed to be kept discretely in your vehicle, or in your carry-on luggage.

Holiday Meals

When you think of the holidays, delicious food is likely the very first item which crosses your mind; roast beef, mashed potatoes, and pecan pie are among our favorites as Americans; but did you know food-borne illness is the cause of over 76 million hospital visits each year according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention? You can easily prevent an accident in four simple steps:

Cleanliness: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before and after handling food.

Separate: Use different cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, seafood, and fresh produce. Keep seafood, raw turkey, roasts, hams and other meats and their juices separate from other side dishes when preparing meals. 

Cook: Cook meat and poultry to a safe minimum internal temperature: turkey, stuffing, casseroles, and leftovers to 165 F; beef, veal and lamb roasts to 145 F, “fully cooked” ham to 140 F and fresh ham, pork and egg dishes to 160 F.

Chill: Chill food promptly. Keep the fridge at 40 F or below to prevent bacteria from growing. Custard pie and other egg dishes should always be kept cool. Put leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours.

Keep Your Loved Ones Safe

General housekeeping, fire safety and prevention procedures and attentive parenting are your best friends this winter, and can help prevent a number of accidents from spoiling this holiday season.

Around the House 

• Whenever it snows, remember to shovel/plow all walkways/driveways in order to avoid slips and falls.
• When hanging lights or decorations, remember to use a proper step ladder, not boxes or furniture to avoid injuries.
• Keep  dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items and other objects out of children’s reach

Mind the Kids 

And remember, from the staff at DOCS Urgent Care, to have a Happy, Healthy Holiday Season!

The colder temperatures, crisp air, and bitter winds can only mean one thing: winter is almost here! With all of the fun holidays, traditions, and activities right around the corner, DOCS Urgent Care in Fairfield, Norwalk, & Bridgeport wants to help make sure you are healthy and safe. That’s why we have created a list of common winter-related injuries and illnesses and how to prevent them.

Slipping on Black Ice

Few things are more annoying than slipping on patches of ice. What is even worse is when you can’t see the ice! That’s the problem with black ice—it is clear and practically unnoticeable on the ground. Slipping and falling can cause mild bruises or long-lasting muscle pain. A good way to avoid slipping is being prepared. Wear closed toe shoes with good grip when you go out walking. If you are walking at night, carry a flashlight to look for icy patches. Be aware of common areas that freeze or ice that could be hidden under snow.

Shoveling Snow

Some people love the snow, and some people are less fond of it. Whatever your opinion may be, it often has to get shoveled either way. Snow shoveling can be a weary task that takes its toll on the body. This continued physical exertion, especially in cold weather, can subject you to injuries or illnesses. One way to avoid this is by wearing enough layers. This keeps your body warm, and in turn, keeps your muscles and joints loose. Don’t be afraid to take breaks if you are feeling tired or out of breath. Shoveling also requires a lot of repeated movement. Stretching before and after snow shoveling helps keep your body limber and void of unnecessary pain.

Common Cold

The common cold is recognized by symptoms of a runny nose, headache, and overall weariness. This can put a damper on the winter spirit. The best way to avoid catching a cold is by staying clean. Make sure to frequently wash your hands, especially after handling public items. Wash with warm water and soap to effectively eliminate germs. It is also helpful to use disposable tissues instead of cloth handkerchiefs, which can promote the spreading of additional germs.

Catching the Flu

The flu is much like the common cold, but with more severe effects. It can often lead to a fever and enduring bodily aches. The flu is easily transferrable, and prevention measures should be taken as soon as possible. The best way to avoid the flu is by getting your flu shot. Receiving your flu shot annually helps protect you from this illness. Come to our Bethel, CT office today to receive your flu shot.

Strep or Sore Throats

Sore throats are typical during the winter months. The drier air can cause throat irritation and slight inflammation. If not treated, it can lead to strep throat. If you begin to feel slight irritation in your throat, gargle with warm water and a teaspoon of salt. This helps soothe inflammation. Also, make sure your body stays warm, especially at night.

Dry Skin

Dry skin occurs with the decrease in temperature. There is less moisture in the air, leading to cracked skin, ashy elbows and knees, and increased skin irritation. To avoid this, apply moisturizer to affected potentially affected areas. It is most beneficial if applied after a warm shower. Avoid taking hot showers, as the drastic change in temperature and further increase irritation.

Sports or Activity Related Injuries

The winter weather also brings about new opportunities for sports and activities. Common among these are skiing, snowboarding, skating, and sledding. While fun, if not careful, these activities can cause injuries. Always take precautionary measures before engaging in winter activities. Make sure your playing area is clear of any hidden obstacles. Wear enough layers to stay warm in the cold temperatures while also keeping your muscles loose. If you are participating in a high intensity sport, stretch before and after to keep your body limber and pain-free.

Vehicle Accidents

This time of the year also involves plenty of travelling. Small visits to the department store or long visits to see family, it is important to stay safe on the roads. There can be unexpected delays and traffic jams, so always keep a safe distance between you and the car in front. Always wear a seat belt, and make sure your vehicle is in proper condition. Be mindful of surrounding drivers, and drive slower if necessary.

We hope you have a wonderful winter season full of joy and happiness. DOCS Urgent Care wants to make sure it is also healthy and safe. If you have any questions about the listed ailments or other conditions, please give your nearest DOCS location a call