The holidays are always filled with joy, celebration, and quality time with loved ones—but it also comes with unhealthy habits and lifestyle changes that can affect your body.
With richer food, busier schedules, and added stress, it’s important to be aware of the conditions that commonly arise during this time so you can enjoy the season safely.
Common Holiday Health Conditions
One of the most frequent concerns during the holidays is hypertension, as salty dishes, alcohol, and heightened stress can easily cause blood pressure to spike. Those with existing cardiovascular conditions may also experience issues, especially since holiday meals tend to be rich in fat and cholesterol, which can strain the heart.
Digestive problems also become more common. Overeating, irregular meal times, and indulgent foods often lead to acid reflux, indigestion, bloating, or gastritis. Similarly, people with diabetes may find it challenging to maintain stable blood sugar levels due to sweets, carbohydrates, and alcoholic beverages that are abundant during gatherings.
Seasonal changes and increased social interaction also mean a higher chance of respiratory illnesses—such as colds, flu, and asthma flare-ups. And beyond physical illnesses, holiday stress can manifest in headaches, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and general fatigue.
Factors That Contribute to These Issues
Holiday habits can make health problems worse. Eating a lot of salty, fatty, and sugary foods can raise blood pressure, affect digestion, and spike blood sugar. Drinking more alcohol can also increase blood pressure, affect sugar levels, and strain the liver.
Sleep often suffers due to late nights and busy schedules, which can weaken the immune system. People also tend to exercise less during the holidays. On top of that, the stress of gift-giving, social events, travel, and year-end tasks can take a toll on mental health.
Why Guarding Your Health Matters During the Holidays
With so many factors affecting your body all at once, taking care of your health becomes even more important during the holiday season.
Detecting potential issues early can prevent complications that might interrupt your celebrations. By staying healthy, it allows you to enjoy time with family and friends without discomfort or worry, and reduces the risk of passing illnesses to others, especially elderly or vulnerable family members.
Most importantly, prevention helps you avoid emergency medical situations, which can be particularly challenging during an already busy time of year.
Stay Merry and Healthy with Shinagawa Diagnostic
Considering how Filipinos love to celebrate and gather with family and friends, one of the best ways to safeguard your health is by scheduling a checkup both before and after the holidays.
Shinagawa Diagnostic offers comprehensive screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, liver function, and heart and lung assessments. These evaluations provide a clear understanding of your health and help you manage potential risks.
With advanced diagnostic technology, comprehensive health packages, and a team of experienced professionals, Shinagawa Diagnostic ensures your checkup is fast, thorough, and reliable.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.