A time to chill

• Don’t suddenly up your physical activity while on holiday if you have risk factors for heart disease. People often start the year with New Year’s resolutions to get fit or lose weight, and then suffer heart problems as a result. Start any exercise programme with moderate intensity.
• Prevent heat stroke and dehydration by avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day and drink lots of water.
• With balance and moderation, you can enjoy the holidays the healthy way. Choose fresh fruit as a festive and sweet substitute for puddings and sweets. Limit fats, salt, and sugary foods.
• Children are at high risk for injuries. Keep a watchful eye on your kids when they’re eating and playing. Keep potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items and choking hazards out of kids’ reach. Learn how to provide early treatment for children who are choking. Develop rules about acceptable and safe behaviours, including using electronic media.
• Be alert around water. Never dive into shallow water or an unknown body of water. Hidden underwater obstructions can cause severe head or spinal cord injuries that could lead to paralysis, and even death, if you go in head first.

(Sources: Mediclinicinfohub.com, Welstand – Solidariteit, southcoastherald.co.za)