You're Run Down
You Skipped Your Flu Shot
You also skipped your flu shot, which you swear every year you won't do, but then you do. Flu shots are widely available beginning late in the fall and they are calibrated to combat the flu viruses health experts think will be the big ones in the coming year. Sometimes they don't hit their intended viral target, but generally, even a vaccine against the wrong flu lessens the effects of a different one and you won't be out of commission for as long.
You Catch Airplane Germs
Honestly, airplanes are gross. Or, more specifically, airplane passengers are. Germs are everywhere and you have no place to escape. You're eating and drinking things with your hands and, probably, haven't gotten up to wash them first. Travel is one of the easiest ways to pick up a bug.
You Get Jet Lag
You also might be getting sick every year because you're not sleeping enough due to jet lag. If you travel to see family or friends most holidays, try to adjust to their time zone a couple of weeks before you board your flight. It's strange to be on the West Coast and get up at 4 in the morning, just so you won't feel tired getting up at 7 a.m. at your mom's house back east. But it will help you get enough good sleep, which protects your immune system and keeps you from your annual Christmas cold.
You Drink Too Much
Alcohol weakens the immune system. As much fun as it is to cut loose during the holidays, you are likely to pay a price if you don't pace yourself. One thing worse than a hangover is a hangover that includes a stuffy nose, headaches and lots of sneezing.
You Keep Eating Junk
Holidays are an easy time to overdo it on junk food. Cookies, cakes and tables filled with empty calories devoid of nutrition are everywhere. Not a superfood in sight! Eating junk, instead of vitamin-packed fruits and vegetables, weakens your body's ability to protect itself from germs you're exposed to.
You Hug and Kiss Everyone
Code red: Avoid the mistletoe. Kissing, hugging and even shaking hands is one of the quickest ways to share germs, some of which will carry a cold or flu virus.
