By Megan Burgasser, burgasma@ucmail.uc.edu
Ideally, the holidays are a time to decorate the house, gather with family and friends, exchange gifts and soak in the season. With that comes reminders that one poor choice could lead to lasting health effects, putting a damper on celebrations.
Experts at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine are offering advice that might not be top of mind during this time of year. While they will be enjoying time with loved ones, here’s what they say they would never do in order to keep their holidays merry and bright.
“I would never eat perishable food at a holiday party that has been sitting out longer than two hours.”
Eric Zgodzinski, DrPH, adjunct assistant professor of public health sciences in the Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, says a danger zone exists for food from 41 to 135 F.
“Bacteria grow quickly between 70 and 125 F,” said Zgodzinski.
Experts say the key is to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold — if not, throw out leftovers after two hours.
“I would never prepare food from a cutting board that was used to slice raw poultry, fish or meats — until it’s been washed properly.”
Tim Ingram, adjunct assistant professor of public health sciences in the Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, says it’s one of his holiday pet peeves.
“I would never purchase cookware with a non-stick coating.”
Susan Pinney, PhD, epidemiology professor in the Department of Environmental and Public Health Services and director of the Center for Environmental Genetics, says don’t give the gift of “forever chemicals” this year. Many pots and pans have non-stick coatings, which she said could contain forever chemicals, or PFAS.
“Those coatings are likely allowing forever chemicals to get into our food,” said Pinney. Long-term exposure to PFAS is known to cause cancer and other illnesses. Opt instead for cast iron or stainless steel.
“I would never let a child near toys or ornaments with button batteries without a closure that’s child safe.”
Whitney Bryant, MD, associate professor of clinical emergency medicine, says to find items with closures that screw into place, so children can’t get into the batteries easily. Button batteries are a common term for lithium batteries. These flat, coin-shaped batteries are small, shiny objects that little ones might find tempting. But Bryant says accidentally swallowing a button battery can lead to esophageal burns and scarring.
“I would not put up Christmas lights on a snowy or icy roof or let my older loved ones do so.”
“So many falls happen during this time of year. Please stay off the roof,” said Bryant. She also recommends never walking on ice. Period.
“I would never let holiday stress stop me from savoring the season.”
Meriden McGraw, director of workplace mindfulness at the Osher Center for Integrative Health, says while the holiday season can be filled with joy, it can also be hectic and stressful.
“Research shows that savoring the good moments, big and small, can increase happiness in the moment, as well as long-term happiness. Savoring increases positive emotions, deepens gratitude, facilitates mindfulness, enhances engagement and provides greater meaning in our lives,” said McGraw.
Feature Image: Santa visitor Galen pays close attention at Cincinnati Museum Center as Santa talks to her about his visit on Christmas Eve. Photo provided