Many are challenged by the holiday season and find that their physical and/or mental health suffers. Although shopping for presents for friends and family is fun; the crowds and financial obligations make shopping stressful. Sometimes, finding the perfect gift for someone special can also crank up your anxiety level.

The holidays needn’t be a stress-filled shopping and eating extravaganza. Following are five tips to keep you healthy for the holidays and save your health insurance provide from preventable healthcare costs.

1. Holiday Parties

Family parties, parties with friends and parties related to your job are ubiquitous during the holiday season. So, remember that the age-old adage “eat, drink and be merry” needs some modification. Health experts agree that folks who follow the guideline for alcohol of no more than two normal drinks per day do well during the holidays, and have the added benefit of less weight gain and less likelihood of getting a citation (or worse) for a DUI.

2. Make Lists

Keeping lists around the holiday season cuts anxiety by putting you in control. Make a list for things to do to prepare for the holidays, such as buying outdoor lights, new LED indoor lights and pick a day for the family to decorate.

Start preparing your gift list in advance of actually shopping. Getting started on your list and buying gifts during the summer and fall is a great way to stay ahead of stress. Start shopping early and look for online deals too.

3. Give Back to the Community

Some families don’t have the benefit of the joys of Christmas. For them, the holiday season is a time of sadness and loneliness. Find a way to reach out to community members who are less fortunate than you are and help. Donate time, food or money and make the effort to help others. You will be filled with a sense of completeness and an inner glow for the good deeds you have done.

4. Feast to Feel Good and not to Feel Full

There are few of us who would say they don’t overeat over the holidays, but there are tricks to cut down the damage. They include swapping unhealthy sugary treats with fruits and nuts. Replace sugary soda and juice drinks with sparkling water, and switch ice cream for a sugarless sorbet.

Of course, maintaining a diet loaded with fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains will keep you filled with energy and happiness.

5. Give Healthy Gifts

Gifts like healthy cookbooks or wellness books are just one type of healthy gift. Yoga mats and other exercise equipment, a gym membership or perhaps a massage gift certificate are other types of healthy gifts.