Newswise — PARK AND WALK: When you go to the mall to shop for your grandchildren's holiday gifts, don't waste your time circling the lot to find a parking space that's close to the door, advises John Morley, M.D., director of geriatrics for Saint Louis University. A better approach is to park far away and use the opportunity to add some "SPF" -- or spontaneous physical fun into your life. Staying physically active keeps you youthful, healthy and vibrant, says Morley, co-author of the soon-to-be-released "The Science of Staying Young." NO TIME TO WORK OUT: You need to thoroughly clean your house to get ready for holiday company. And then, you have to ferret out those Christmas tree ornaments packed on a top shelf in your attic. You don't have time for your regular half-hour morning walk. Put the guilt on ice because you're adding physical activity into your holiday routine without taking the time for a trip to the gym, says Katie Duggan, MPH, an instructor at Saint Louis University's School of Public Health. Multitasking will help keep you in shape when life gets too hectic.
BATTLING THE GIMMES: With so much focus on gifts around the holidays, greed can get the best of kids. Ken Haller, M.D., an associate professor of pediatrics at Saint Louis University, says it's important for parents to set realistic expectations early on for children. Haller also suggests battling the gimmes by focusing on those who are in need. Parents can instill the spirit of giving in children by allowing children to purchase a toy for a child in need or participating in a canned food drive. Of course, parents should make sure kids see them giving " and at times other than the holidays.
HOLIDAY HEART ATTACKS: While the holidays are "the most wonderful time of the year" they can also be the most stressful time. With the added stress of family, traveling and buying gifts, in addition to the tendency to loosen up on the diet and consume more alcohol, it's no wonder that people are more likely to experience a heart attack this time of year. Michael Lim, MD, an assistant professor of cardiology at Saint Louis University, is available to talk about the signs of a heart attack and can offer life-saving advice.
GRANDMA'S NOT HERSELF: Was grandma quiet at Thanksgiving dinner? It could be that she didn't hear you. Dave Harris, Ph.D., CCC-A, an audiologist at Saint Louis University, says that hearing loss is a common problem among elderly and, if left untreated, often leads to isolation and depression. Fortunately, though, there are a variety of options to help those experiencing hearing loss to regain the gift of sound. Harris is available to talk about the best treatments for those who are losing hearing.
TURKEY TROUBLE: Want to make sure your family's thoughts of Thanksgiving dinner are memorable is a positive way? Kathleen Kress, M.S. R.D., assistant professor of nutrition and dietetics at Saint Louis University, offers expert advice in food safety that can make a pro out of any turkey chef. She can provide tips on how to safely defrost and cook a large frozen turkey, tips for determining doneness, ways to ensure a moist turkey and healthy options/portions for gravy and other holiday favorites.
GRANNY CURES FOR A COLD: An FDA advisory panel recently recommended that cold medicines should not be used by children between 2 and 6. Ken Haller, M.D., an associate professor of pediatrics at Saint Louis University, applauds the decision. He says that the medicines haven't been tested in children and numerous studies show the drugs don't make children with colds and sore throats feel better any quicker than doing nothing at all. Better strategies: drink lots of fluids, get plenty of rest, use a humidifier and try saline nasal sprays to help kids breathe easier.
ALLERGIES OR A COLD?: If you're sniffing or sneezing this time of year, it may not be a cold or the flu that you have. It could be wintertime allergies, says Mark Dykewicz, M.D., professor of allergy and clinical immunology at Saint Louis University. Dry indoor air, very common this time of year, makes many people particularly vulnerable to a host of indoor allergies, Dykewicz says. He's available to discuss how you can tell whether you're suffering from allergies or a cold " and some best ways to find symptom relief.
DRY SKIN NO MORE: With the holiday season comes the start of winter " and for many people, the scourge of dry, chapped skin. What are some of the ways to keep your skin healthy and looking its best throughout the season? Natalie Semchyshyn, M.D., assistant professor of dermatology at Saint Louis University, is available to discuss her favorite ski-care tips for winter.
COLOR THEM BLUE: The holiday season got you down? For many people, the answer is yes, says Miggie Greenberg, M.D., instructor of psychiatry at Saint Louis University. With everyone around them seemingly sharing in the joy and spirit of the holiday season, many people find themselves sad and depressed. For some, the blues hit after the season ends and the fun and excitement are over. Greenberg is available to talk what causes the holiday blues " and some of the things that can be done to avoid getting hit by them.
NO HOLIDAY FROM EXERCISE: Holiday parties, Christmas shopping, family get-togethers, out-of-town travel. During the busy holiday season, it may be harder than ever to find time to exercise. But it's important to try, says Ethel Frese, associate professor of physical therapy at the Doisy College of Health Sciences at Saint Louis University. Finding time for physical activity this time of year keeps your exercise routine on track and can make you look and feel better " perhaps even giving you more energy. Frese is available to talk about some of the ways to stay motivated to hit the gym this time of year.
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