You’ve probably wondered why is it that you always develop a sniffle or dry cough around the holiday time? Many theories claim it’s the temperature change and so on. However, the one leading cause of holiday season sickness is holiday stress! The pressures of finding perfect presents, booking flights, cooking dinners, etc. builds up elevates your cortisol levels. High cortisol translates to low immunity. Here are some simple ways to prevent holiday stress sickness:

Prepare/Build Up Your Immune System: When holiday shopping comes around, the density of people and germs just about doubles. Make sure to disinfect your hands and minimize your exposure to stranger’s germs. Keep vitamin D and C levels high.

Restrict the Sweets: Although it may be tempting to indulge in a candycane or grandma’s gingerbread, sugar is a factor in increasing risks of sickness. Turn to protein to fill the sugar-craving void.

Don’t Forget About YOU: It’s quite easy to get rapped up in pleasing others during the holiday season, but it’s important to continue to take care of yourself in order to prevent sickness from overcoming. Make sure to prioritize and put your bodily needs as high on the list as “Getting ingredients for the stuffing”  — eat breakfast, keep hydrated, and don’t overwork yourself when scavenging for gifts.