Make friends with salad in 2019 with some HEALTHY HINTS

VicHealth has put together some handy tips to help Victorians have a healthy and happy New Year season.

VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said while it’s normal to indulge a little over the holiday season, the New Year was a great time to focus on how we can improve our health.

“Being festive doesn’t mean completely forgetting the healthy habits we’ve gained throughout the year. There are small things we can do to ensure we start the New Year feeling healthy and energised,” Ms Rechter said.

Survive and thrive during the festive season with these top tips:

1. You do win friends with salad

Let’s face it, the food is one of the best parts of the holiday season. Treat yourself but try to also leave plenty of room on your plate for the good stuff – salads, vegies and fruit. Aim to fill at least half your plate with veggies and salads then add meat and trimmings.

2. Leave the hangover in 2018

Throughout the holidays we often over indulge and wake with a splitting headache after a big night on the booze. Try to limit your drinking by choosing lower strength drinks, drink lots of water and make sure you eat while drinking

3. Drop the devices

We spend an incredible amount of our time glued to our phones, tablets and computers. Research has linked too much screen time to reduced physical activity, social isolation and even depression. Over the holidays challenge yourself to a digital detox by taking a few days off from your screens

4. Feel the love

The summer holidays are the perfect time to catch up with family and friends. If you’re feeling a little lonely over the holidays reach out to family or friends and share how you’re feeling

5. Move it don’t lose it

There’s no doubt that staying active over the holidays can be a real challenge. With all the social activities, shopping, and party planning, getting to the gym isn’t too high on most people’s holiday to-dolists. Being active helps keep stress at bay, keeps us fit and just makes us feel good

6. Ditch the drama

The holidays are a great time to have fun with family and friends but let’s face it, it can also be quite stressful. Make some time for you these holidays – read a book, go for a run, listen to music or just sit in a park.

7. Butt out

If you’re a smoker make your New Year’s resolution to quit. Smoking is one of the worst things we can do for our health and it’s never too late to quit. There’s plenty of support to help you kick your smoking habit, for good! Visit quit.org.au for support.