Samantha Rux from OSF Healthcare joined the Wake Up Tri-Counties show today to share tips for a healthier holiday season. In addition to advice on navigating tempting holiday treats—like opting for smaller portions, eating a light snack before gatherings, and slowing down during meals—Rux highlighted an opportunity to give back. On Thursday, December 18th, OSF St. Luke will host a community blood drive from 7 AM to 5 PM, with Impact Life ensuring donations remain local. Appointments are available at bloodcenter.org, but walk-ins are welcome while space allows. OSF also offers holiday recipes and healthy eating resources on its website.
Residents are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and make a life-changing impact at the upcoming community blood drive. Taking place in the East/West Conference Room on Thursday, December 18, from 7 AM to 5 PM, this event offers a chance to provide healing and hope by donating blood. Each contribution goes directly to those in need within the area, turning a few minutes of your time into renewed strength for others. To secure a time slot, participants can sign up online. With the season of giving upon us, this is an opportunity to truly make a difference.
As holiday feasts fill tables through November, December, and January, health professionals are sounding a note of caution. Dr. Andrew Zasada of OSF HealthCare advises planning to avoid overeating. A light snack before big meals and using smaller plates can help with portion control, while eating slowly gives your body time to signal when it’s full. Moving away from the food after eating also reduces temptation. For those who occasionally overindulge, avoid alcohol or lying down right after to prevent heartburn. Anyone struggling with eating disorders is urged to seek help from trusted friends and a healthcare provider. One big meal won’t ruin your health, but consistent support is vital.
Andrew Zasada, MD, said, “If you come to the meal hungry, you tend to try to make up for not having breakfast. You load your plate up, which is going to cause you to overeat,” Dr. Zasada says. “Instead, have a light snack an hour or two before you sit down to the meal.
“Put the food in one room and sit down in another room to eat. That necessitates you going there rather than having food available for another fill.”
