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30 WWW.UNWLA.ORG “НАШЕ ЖИТТЯ”, ГРУДЕНЬ 2015 AS THE YEAR IS WINDING DOWN by Ihor Magun, MD, FACP As another year comes to an end, we wonder how it all could have passed so quickly. The holidays are again upon us, and as usual, our minds seem to turn increasingly to what we have accomplished in the preceding months as well as to our plans for the coming year. Because it is De- cember, rather than focusing on a single topic, I would like to share with you a number of ideas and recommendations that are medically educa- tional, motivational, and seasonally appropriate to help you make it through this final month and prepare for the year ahead. MEDICALLY EDUCATIONAL In the northern regions of the country, the onset of winter brings dryness to our skin. The cold, coupled with frequent washing, makes hands the most vulnerable skin part to dryness. Despite all the proper precautions to keep your hands moist, you may need to take additional measures. Apply a better quality moisturizing lo- tion (a good investment for your health— Amlactin is one suggestion) and purchase white cotton gloves (available at a pharmacy cosmetics department). At bedtime, apply the lotion in slightly greater quantities, and then put the gloves on for the night. Remove them in the morning. Your hands will thank you, and you will notice the difference very quickly. You may also welcome all the nice compliments on your smooth hands. Be vigilant of low-fat or fat-free food, es- pecially during the holidays. We tend to be more liberal with our portions because reduced-fat or nonfat food is lower in calories than full-fat food. However, “fat-free” or “low-fat” does not mean the absence of calories, which in excess can lead to weight gain as well. If you do go with fat-free foods, choose crispy raw vegetables for snacks. Not only will they satisfy your hunger, but they are also fiber-filled and vitamin-rich. Carry healthy snacks to work, or keep them around at home. Reach for them when your willpower is at its lowest. Be careful with so-called “healthy nu- trition” or granola bars which sound healthy, but in reality can be filled with sugars, corn syrup, and fat. Always read labels and choose food items wisely. Lastly, do not underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep, which will improve your memory, mood, health, and cognition, and better prepare you for anything that comes your way during the day. MOTIVATIONAL Everyone does better when they set goals because goals provide that proverbial “carrot on a stick.” The problem is that people often set unre- alistic goals and then end up stressed when it looks like these plans will fall through. The key to success is to establish realistic goals. Two exam- ples are a weight loss of maybe five pounds over a four-week period or allotting thirty minutes four times a week to an exercise routine. Once the goal is reached, you will feel a sense of accomplish- ment, which in turn will lead to setting and achieving more ambitious goals. Another way of helping oneself to com- plete tasks is to write down everything that you need to accomplish. First, tackle the difficult task which you may be tempted to put off. It will make you feel better and the other tasks on your list will seem to be simple and easily done in comparison. SEASONAL Life is hectic enough, and when all the seasonal responsibilities seem overwhelming, re- member to prioritize your time and simplify. Technology is helpful in this regard since many tasks can be accomplished from your home com- puter or on your cell phone. The holiday season is always so wonder- ful: utilize it to your advantage by allocating your time precisely and to the aspects of life that really matter. There is no need to go overboard with gifts or food. Simplify your lists and make time to spend with your friends and family. Be sure to include individuals who do not need gifts or food but just a simple telephone call or a visit. Such actions will make you feel the joy of the season. I hope that all your wishes and holiday plans come to fruition. I wish you all a most joyous Christmas season filled with health, humor, and happy moments. I look forward to providing you with information on exciting new medical developments in the coming months to help you be your best. Best wishes!
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