You may have resolved to have a restful, replenishing holiday season, but when things get really busy, it’s easy to forget about your health. The quick drop in temperature, the stress of shopping for gifts and a revolving door of visiting relatives and friends can all contribute to you not feeling your best. But a better mood and a healthier outlook may be closer at hand than you think. Here are three ways to stay healthy with green tea this holiday season.
Fight the Blues with Something Green
Sometimes the “most wonderful time of the year” feels anything but. Shorter days, freezing weather and more time indoors can all put a dent in your holiday cheer. This can be especially true for the elderly, who may have less options to socialize and get around during these months than they do during the rest of the year. If the stress of being cooped up is causing anxiety, green tea might be just what the doctor ordered. Some studies out of Japan have shown that an amino acid called theanine, which is found in green tea, could have a calming effect.
A Breath of Fresh Air
With more people spending time indoors and gathering in large numbers for big feasts during the holidays, it’s inevitable to encounter some bad breath. Everyone has at least one relative who is notorious for being a close-talker and oblivious to the fact that their breath could easily wilt every last pine needle from your tree if given the chance. What’s a subtle way to deal with this embarrassing issue? Serve up a fresh pot of green tea, which has been shown to curb the curb the effects of bacteria that cause bad breath.
Keep the Kids Healthy
Kids are especially prone to getting sick this time of year. Not only that, but they easily spread diseases like the flu to other relatives and friends. That’s because they’re less likely to remember to wash their hands or cover their mouths when they sneeze and cough. Green tea could help boost the immune response of the little ones in your household. It’s also a healthier alternative to other rich, sugary drinks that are a staple of the holiday season. If your kids are averse to the taste of green tea, try sweetening it with honey!
How are you staying healthy during the holidays? In the hustle and bustle of the next few weeks, it’s important to take care of your body. Keep a fresh pot nearby to stay warm and healthy, but don’t forget that there’s no replacement for your doctor’s medical advice when you’re feeling truly sick. No matter how you celebrate this time of year, raise a cuppa to your own health so you can get the most of the holiday season.