Staying Healthy During the Holidays

It's the time of year when many people will be around family and friends for holiday parties, but big gatherings can cause stress and spread germs.

According to Marc P. Kai, M.D., Ph.D., a primary care doctor with Mercy Family Care Physicians in Baltimore, you have to focus on it all - the emotional, mental and physical aspects - to stay healthy during the holidays.

Food portion control is important -- eat the good stuff, but don't go overboard - and make sure you get up and move.

"I recommend people go for a walk, especially after eating. There's a lot of great research that shows that even a short five to 10 minute walk - it doesn't have to be super brisk - but getting outside or even walking around the mall or the grocery store for a little bit helps," Dr. Kai said. "The sedentary lifestyle, we know, is not great for your heart and other organs you have, but walking also kind of helps you unpack, de-stress, get away - either your own personal time, if you need to, or it's a great time to bond with friends and family."

Dr. Kai also noted to remember to bring hand sanitizer or wash your hands with warm water and soap often, get your flu shot ahead of time and, if you're feeling sick, wear a mask.

View Mercy primary care physician Dr. Marc Kai's interview regarding staying healthy for the holidays.