The Christmas period is a perfect opportunity to enjoy fun times with friends and family. But the silly season can also be synonymous with stress, accidents and overindulgence, which can quickly put an end to Christmas cheer.
The Department of Health and Families has the following tips to help you have a happy, healthy and safe Christmas season:
- Don't drink and drive-if you plan to drink, have a "Sober Bob" and
plan not to drive - Stay active-do 30 minutes of exercise every day
- Don't drink excessively
- Eat healthily-go for between two and five serves of fruit and vegetables daily
- Get a good night's sleep
- Ensure children do not play in or around cars, even when parked
- Remember to take breaks every two hours when driving: Rest, Revive, Survive
- Always follow speed limits
- Be mindful of food safety-keep food in the fridge until serving time, and keep chopping boards and utensils clean
- Remember to slip, slop, slap when you're having fun in the sun
Set realistic lifestyle goals and find effective strategies that work for you, such as limiting takeaways to one per week, snacking on fruits and vegetables instead of cakes or biscuits for morning tea, and buying low-fat dairy products and lean meat.
Looking toward the New Year, consider incorporating some healthy lifestyle changes into your resolutions for 2010.
The Department of Health and Families would like to wish all Territorians-from Central Australia to the Top End-a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.
Release date: 23 December 2009
