Getting sick around the holidays is something we all dread every year but especially in 2020. With all the merry making the holidays bring, and the running about, it’s a good idea to give your immune system a boost. Here are four ways you can try to keep your holidays healthier and safer this year.

• Take your vitamins - In addition to social distancing and washing your hands it’s important to beef up your immune system. Make sure your giving your body the vitamins you need to stay well. Vitamin’s like vitamin C, vitamin B-6, and vitamin E can all do a lot to help you stay healthy. You can find a lot of the vitamins you need in the foods you eat. Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, grapefruit, kale, bell peppers, spinach and broccoli. Since your body doesn’t produce or store vitamin C a daily intake is important to maintain good health.

Vitamin B-6 is also important for supporting your immune system. Some foods rich in B-6 include chicken, salmon and tuna. Vitamin B-6 can also be found in green vegetables and chickpeas.

Vitamin E can be found in foods such as nuts, seeds and spinach. Vitamin E is an antioxidant which can help your body ward of infections.

• Avoid stress - It can be hard to avoid stress during the holidays and especially after the very stressful year 2020 has been. However, there are some ways that you can try to distance yourself from the anxiety. Defusing essential oils in your home like lavender and bergamot can help you create a stress relieving environment. Also doing some self-care like taking a bath or reading your favorite book can help. Try focusing on the parts of the holiday that bring you joy. Also make sure to get outside and soak in some sunlight and fresh air.

• Cut back on sugar - Another big roadblock to a healthy holiday is eating too many sweets. Sugar can make it difficult for your body to fight off viruses and infections. Having sweets in moderation even during the holidays can help you keep your immune system going strong.

• Sleep - Another very vital part of health is getting enough sleep. Although the holidays can make it hard to achieve this you won’t regret getting enough sleep. Even if you have to catch up during the day with a couple of naps getting rest is important. Your body will thank you.