The holiday season is full of joy, family, and celebration — but it can also bring stress, overindulgence and disrupted routines. To help you keep your health on track while enjoying the festivities, we asked our experts to share their favorite tips. Here are 12 practical ways to stay merry and healthy this Christmas.

Day 1: Prioritize Sleep

Dr. Lakeisha Chism: “Make sure you get enough rest. Sleep is essential for your immune system, mood and overall well-being.”

Day 2: Hydrate Smarter

Dr. Pranav Modi: “Hydrate smarter, not harder. Aim for 2–3 liters of water daily with steady intake to avoid dehydration and fatigue.”

Day 3: Step Outside

Dr. Lakeisha Chism: “Spend time in nature. Fresh air and movement can reduce stress and boost your energy.”

Day 4: Protect Your Routines

Dr. Brad Crosswhite: “One thing you can do this holiday season is protect your routines. Eat real meals, get your sleep, move your body. Your health depends far more on consistency than perfection.  Holiday health isn’t about avoiding treats — it’s about avoiding extremes.  Start now so you don't feel the need to "reset" in January. 

Day 5: Balance is Key

Dr. Emily Landrum: "My favorite tip is BALANCE! Being healthy is about maintaining healthy habits over time and that means you can't be perfect all the time. A focus on a balanced diet with regular exercise and a few treats along the way is the best way to achieve that long term."

Dr. Bonnie Basler: "I recommend a whole food plant-based diet and regular exercise." 

Day 6: Don’t Drink Your Calories

Dr. Katy Franks: “Skip the sodas, juices and creamers.” 

Dr. Reem Al Abed Alqader: “Replace juice with zero calorie choices or eat fruits with fiber. One cup of whole milk has around 150 calories while the same cup of almond milk has around 40. Save your calories to eat more protein that makes you feel full. “

Day 7: Portion Control at Parties

Dr. Nikki Ivancic-Currey: “Use a salad plate at holiday gatherings. You’ll enjoy the food without overloading your plate or feeling deprived.”

Day 8: Shop Smart

Terry Miller, CFNP: “Spend more time shopping the perimeter of the grocery store — where fresh produce, lean proteins and whole foods live.”

Day 9: Preventive Care Matters

Dr. Lakeisha Chism: “Schedule your annual checkup and get recommended screenings. Prevention is the best gift you can give yourself.”

Day 10: Protect Your Brain

Dr. Lucas McElwain: "What’s good for your heart is good for your brain. Healthy habits today protect your future cognitive health.”

Day 11: Listen to Your Body

Dr. David Pizzimenti: “My health tip is that it's OK to NOT eat everything on your plate! We unfortunately force our kids at a young age to "clean their plate" and that it's bad to leave food because "there are starving people in the world." This is terrible advice! Instead, eat slower and STOP eating when you are full. Put your leftovers in the fridge to eat another smaller portion the next day!”

Day 12: Trust Your Doctor

Dr. Lakeisha Chism: “Skip the hearsay, ChatGPT and social media advice. Your doctor’s office is a judgment-free zone — be honest about your habits and medications.”

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of health. Share these tips with friends and family and start the new year feeling your best! For more wellness advice, subscribe to our e-newsletter or follow us on social media.