From parties to baking cookies, navigating all of the great things that come with the holiday season can be difficult, especially if you are living with a non-healing wound. It's important to understand the impact holiday traditions can have on the body’s health and healing process. For instance, walking around the neighborhood caroling in below freezing temperatures, while drinking hot chocolate that’s more marshmallow than cocoa, could cause any progress in healing to stall from added stress and inflammation. However, a wound doesn’t need to steal the holiday cheer, or cause any bah-humbug moments, so here are five helpful tips to make sure all of those living with a non-healing wound have a healthy and cheerful holiday season:

1. Eat Smart: You may not be able to control what food will be served but you can control what you consume. Have a plan in place before the gathering:

• Eat close to your usual times to keep your blood sugar steady. If your meal is served later than normal, have a snack at your usual mealtime and eat a little less when dinner is served.
• Invited to a party? Bring a healthy dish.
• If you have a sweet treat, cut back on other carbs (like potatoes and bread) during the meal.
• Don’t skip meals all day to save up for an evening feast. It will be harder to manage your blood sugar and your hunger may result in overeating.
• If you fall off track, don’t kick yourself. Get right back to healthy eating with your next meal.

2. Drink Responsibly:  Make sure to drink your daily amount of water and then an extra glass for every alcoholic and caffeinated beverage consumed. 

• Drinks like eggnog not only have alcohol that can cause inflammation, but are also high in sugar & fat content. 
• Caffeinated beverages tend to be high in sugar, try to find a healthy alternative to gain energy like green tea, or just black coffee. 
• Remain hydrated even when it’s cold. Take a water bottle for every holiday outing. 
• Be aware of any medication you are taking before consuming alcohol. 

3. Celebrate Traditions: If grandma’s gingerbread cookies are a tradition, don’t skip out. Just be mindful of not over indulging in the holiday sweets.  

• No food is on the naughty list, it’s the portion size that matters. 
• Slow down and savor a small serving and make sure to count it in your meal plan. 
• Drink water with every meal.

4. Move with Purpose: Being active is your secret holiday weapon; it can help make up for eating more than usual and it also lowers stress. 

• Plan a fun activity with friends and family after a holiday meal, such as taking a walk or hike.
• Wear proper shoes and clothing when participating in outdoor activities.
• Always keep your wound covered, and change any dressings that may become wet. Remember, snow might not feel wet, but it will soak through shoes and thick clothing. Yes, even those snow boots & ski pants. 

5. Get Your Rest:. Going out and staying up late often results in a lack of sleep, which can weaken your immune system when it’s already working to heal. 

• Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep a night to give your body the time to rest.
• For days that you know will be a late night, try finding time to sit down with your feet up for at least 30 minutes.
• Try not drinking any caffeinated beverages 6 hours prior to going to bed, or after 5pm. 

Bonus Tip for Wound Care Patients: Be sure to keep your regularly scheduled appointments and follow dietary recommendations. It’s very important to continue treatment throughout the holiday season and have an open line of communication with your care team.

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