Santa and Your Health

 

Christmas is just around the corner. That means that Santa and his elves are watching everything you do to determine if you should go on the “Naughty” or “Nice” list this year. Did you know that Santa is very concerned about your health? He wants to make sure that you do not forget to take care of your health in the midst of the rush of the holiday season. So, will you be on the “Naughty” or “Nice” list this year? Read on to find out.

Have you been to your OBYGN for your regularly scheduled Pap test (your doctor can recommend the frequency for this test based on your medical history and other factors). Have you gotten your baseline Mammogram and any recommended follow up Mammograms (this will also depend on your age, risk factors, etc.)? Are you eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and getting the recommended daily intake of calcium and vitamin D (to promote good bone health)? Are you exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI)? Are you getting at least seven hours of sleep most nights? If you have answered “yes” to these questions, you are well on your way to making the “Nice” list. However, if you have answered “no” to any of these questions, you are in danger of making the “Naughty” list. If you don’t change your ways, you might be getting a lump of coal in your stocking from Santa this year!

In all seriousness, the holidays can be a hectic time, but it is not the time to neglect your health. If you have not been taking good care of yourself, resolve to make this change by Christmas or at least in the new year. Schedule an appointment with your OBGYN and find out how you can protect your long-term health and quality of life.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Carlos Alarcon, Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A.