Memorial Hermann Gives Advice on How to Stay Healthy and Sane During the Holidays

One of the primary concerns of a doctor, other than treating a patient's ailments, is to try to prevent sickness in the first place. The medical professionals at Memorial Hermann believes that preventive care is one of the most important ways to maintain good health, and Dr. Ernest Bartimmo, the chief medical officer for the Memorial Hermann Medical Group who specializes in internal medicine, is sharing how to stay in optimum physical condition this holiday season.

"Try to eat variety of foods, including fruits and vegetables," Bartimmo said. "Be sure to get exercise, even if just for 30 minutes."

Moreover, with feasts and parties lined up for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's and the days in between, there is sure to be a bountiful supply of rich and heavy food and drink, as well as plenty of leftovers. Bartimmo reminds everyone to control portions when they eat and to make sure that they have more intake of the healthier options. Also, since there will likely be a lot of merrymaking, joyful get-togethers, loud music and exchange of conversations, it is advisable to have time to relax and have some quiet time for oneself.

And of course, one should not forget that there are plenty more holidays to come, and there is no better way to enjoy them than to stay healthy. Seeing one's doctor for a regular check-up is the best way to monitor one's physical condition and to catch any disease at an early stage.

"Just because you don't experience any symptoms doesn't mean that you're in excellent health," Bartimmo said. "It's easier to treat a problem before it becomes a real problem."

For more information about preventive care and other Memorial Hermann services, please call 713-222-CARE or visit online at www.memorialhermann.org.

About Memorial Hermann

An integrated health system, Memorial Hermann is known for world-class clinical expertise, patient-centered care, leading-edge technology and innovation. The system, with its exceptional medical staff and more than 20,000 employees, serves southeast Texas and the greater Houston community. Memorial Hermann's 12 hospitals include three hospitals in the Texas Medical Center, including a level 1 trauma center, a hospital for children and a rehabilitation hospital, eight suburban hospitals, and a second rehabilitation hospital in Katy. The system also operates three Heart & Vascular Institute locations; the Mischer Neuroscience Institute; the Ironman Sports Medicine Institute; an air ambulance; cancer, imaging and surgery centers; sports medicine and rehabilitation centers; outpatient laboratories; a chemical-dependency treatment center; a home-health agency; a retirement community; and a nursing home. To learn more, visit www.memorialhermann.org.