Christmas signals time for an overhaul
22 December 2009
We know he’s jovial and full of festive cheer, but Santa Claus could use a bit of an overhaul when it comes to the example he’s setting for the average Aussie male.
As the man in red prepares to pack his sleigh and deliver gifts worldwide, he is also about to be an unwitting promoter of obesity, chronic disease and even binge drinking.
Hunter New England Health is making the most of this week’s festive mood to remind men that Christmas should not be about excess and overindulgence.
Armidale Community Health’s Marilyn McCarthy said Santa could make a few key improvements to his rotund, sedentary image.
“Of course we all need to relax, have fun and enjoy a few treats over the holiday season, but there are a few problem areas we should all watch out for, in the interests of our long-term health,” Ms McCarthy said.
So what can men – and Santa – do to overhaul their waistlines and improve their wellbeing?
• Lay off the mince pies: The 2007-08 National Health Survey revealed 61.4 per cent of the Australian population was either overweight or obese. But in 2008 only 56.6 per cent of Hunter New England regional residents consumed the recommended serves of fruit. An even smaller proportion of 12.5 per cent consumed the recommended serves of vegetables.
“By eating fewer mince pies (200 calories each) and consuming at least two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables a day, we can reduce the likelihood of slipping into obesity,”Ms McCarthy said.
• Take it easy with the Christmas cheer: Mr Claus says he enjoys a glass of whisky in each house he visits during Christmas; not a good idea. Although most blokes enjoy a beer or two on Christmas Day, there can be a fine line between social and binge drinking. The short-term risks of binge drinking include falls, assaults and car accidents. And if someone drinks heavily over a long period of time, they can become physically and psychologically dependent upon alcohol, which can damage parts of the body, including the brain and liver.
“During Christmas, blokes can do a few simple things to cut back on the booze. These include starting with a non-alcoholic drink, trying low-alcohol alternatives, and pacing themselves. And both men and women should also remember that recommended rate of alcohol consumption is just two standard drinks a day.”
• Stay calm and take a deep breath: On Christmas Eve, Santa has to complete a heavy workload before a fixed deadline. Stress and fatigue are inevitable, increasing the risk of irritability, mood swings, errors and accidents. This scenario can also ring true for many men (and women) in the lead-up to Christmas. Work pressures, financial difficulties and impending visits from the in-laws can all take their toll, with one in five people experiencing stress over the Christmas period.
“It is important that we all try to keep things in perspective and remember the real message of the festive season. Spending time with loved ones and enjoying each other’s company holds far greater value than spending a fortune on gifts or treats,” Ms McCarthy said.
“If you notice any changes in the behaviour of someone you care about, be there to offer support. If they don't seem to be coping, help the person to see a GP or other health professional. Keep in close contact with them and try not to leave them alone if they do have a problem.”
• Ditch the wheels, stay active: Instead using a sleigh, Santa could consider a more active method to deliver toys - swapping his reindeer for a bike or simply walking or jogging. Men can adopt a similar approach during the holidays.
“Stay active by working out for a good 45 minutes every day. If everyone else is in the kitchen cooking Christmas lunch, get the kids out from under the cooks' feet by taking them to the park for a kickabout. An hour and a half's football in the park will burn off 630 calories (three mince pies) as well as letting over-excited children burn off some energy,” Ms McCarthy said.
(HNE-2110)
Contact: Carisa Green
Phone: (02) 6767 7135 or 0428 106 183