Tips for Choosing a Health Insurance Plan

Navigating health insurance can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right plan is important for your well-being and financial security. With so many options available, understanding where to start can make all the difference. This guide simplifies the process, helping you make an informed and confident decision.

1. Understand Your Coverage Options

Your healthcare choices depend on how you receive coverage. Options include:

Employer-funded health plans
Federal or state programs
Private Insurance
Medicare or Medicaid (if you qualify)

If your employer offers a health plan, this is often the most cost-effective option since companies typically contribute toward premiums. If employer-sponsored insurance isn’t available, you can explore plans through the federal or state marketplace at HealthCare.gov, where financial assistance may be available based on your income. Another option is purchasing private insurance directly from insurers, though these plans usually don’t qualify for government subsidies. Those who qualify may receive coverage through government programs such as Medicare (for individuals 65+ or those with certain disabilities) or Medicaid (for low-income individuals and families).

2. Compare Plan Types

Health plans vary in cost, coverage, and flexibility. The most common types include:

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Typically, lower costs but requires in-network care and referrals for specialists.
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Higher costs, but it allows you to see specialists without referrals and offers out-of-network coverage.
EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): No referrals are required, but you are restricted to in-network providers other than in an emergency.
POS (Point of Service Plan): Requires referrals but provides some out-of-network coverage.

Think about how often you visit doctors, whether you need specialist care, and how much flexibility you want when choosing a plan.

3. Check Provider Networks

Every insurance plan has a network of doctors, hospitals, and specialists that accept it. Seeing network providers saves you money, while out-of-network care often comes with higher costs or isn’t covered at all.

If you have preferred doctors or medical facilities, check whether they accept the plan before enrolling. Those who travel frequently or live in rural areas may benefit from a plan with a larger provider network.

4. Look Beyond the Monthly Premium

While the monthly premium is a key factor, other costs can significantly impact what you pay for healthcare. Be sure to consider:

Deductible: The amount you must pay before your insurance starts covering expenses.
Copays and Coinsurance: The portion you pay for doctor visits, prescriptions, and medical services.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The highest yearly cost before your insurance kicks in and covers the cost.

Choosing a plan with a higher premium but lower out-of-pocket costs might be worthwhile if you expect frequent medical visits. Conversely, a lower-premium plan with a higher deductible may save you money if you’re generally healthy.

5. Evaluate Additional Benefits

Some health insurance plans offer extra benefits that could make a big difference in your coverage. If these things are important to you, be sure to look for plans that include:

Prescription drug coverage
Mental health and therapy services
Maternity or fertility treatments
Preventive care, wellness programs, or telemedicine options

Contact the provider’s customer service before enrolling if you’re uncertain about what a plan covers. Asking detailed questions now can help you avoid unexpected expenses later.

Choosing The Right Plan for You

Choosing the right health insurance plan requires careful consideration of your medical needs, budget, and provider preferences. Taking the time to compare options and understand key details can lead to better coverage and long-term financial security. If you need help with a side-by-side comparison of potential healthcare options, our healthcare insurance agents are more than willing to assist. Call our office today to schedule an appointment to discuss the best plan for you.

Will My Health Insurance Cover Special Procedures?

Navigating health insurance coverage can seem like deciphering a foreign language, particularly when it involves special procedures. If you need a procedure that is not considered standard medical practice or within the scope of routine care by the health insurance industry, it is essential to understand how your health plan comes into play to be prepared and avoid surprises.

What Qualifies as a Special Procedure?

Special procedures are medical treatments or interventions that fall outside the realm of standard medical care. Insurers may classify these procedures as elective, experimental, or medically necessary. They often involve advanced technology, specialized expertise, or treatments for complex or rare conditions. Insurers may use the term “special procedure” to categorize procedures that may require additional review, documentation, or prior authorization before coverage is approved. The key to determining coverage is in the fine print of your health plan, as each plan is different.

The following are examples of special procedures:

LASIK eye surgery: This is considered voluntary and generally not covered.
Fertility treatments: In-vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI) for individuals dealing with fertility issues may be excluded or restricted.
Bariatric surgery: Even when it is deemed essential for severe obesity and related medical conditions, some plans exclude coverage for bariatric surgery.
Genetic testing: Although medically necessary, plans that exclude genetic screening deny tests to identify hereditary risks for certain conditions, such as BRCA mutations.
Stem cell therapy: This advanced therapy treats spinal cord injuries, degenerative diseases, and other conditions but is frequently excluded as experimental.
Proton beam therapy: This advanced cancer treatment may be medically necessary for certain types of cancer, but insurers often label it as experimental.

What Are the Steps to Determine Coverage?

If your doctor has recommended a special procedure, take the following steps:

Examine your policy in detail: Look for specific language about special procedures, elective surgeries, or experimental treatments. Many health plans have an exclusion section that details what is not covered.
Get preauthorization: This is a must for most special procedures. Your healthcare provider submits documentation to the insurance company explaining why the procedure is necessary. Even procedures categorized as medically necessary may be denied coverage without preauthorization.
Talk to your provider: Your doctor’s office has experience dealing with insurance companies. They can help you navigate the preauthorization process and provide insight on how to appeal a denial.
Appeal a denied claim: If your health insurance company denies coverage, do not accept that as the final word. You have the right to appeal. Work with your provider to gather additional documentation, such as medical studies or second opinions, to strengthen your case.
Look for supplemental coverage: Consider a supplemental insurance policy if your primary health insurance does not cover a specific procedure. Supplemental plans are designed to fill gaps in coverage and provide financial support for specialized treatments.

Our experienced agent can help you determine whether a special procedure is covered under your primary health plan. If it is not, we can help you find supplemental health insurance at the best available rates.

Diabetes & Exercise: Connecting the Dots

Diabetes has become a widespread health concern, affecting millions of people of all ages. CDC reports that 11.6% of the U.S. population – 38.4 million individuals – had diabetes in 2021. While medications and dietary adjustments tend to take center stage in diabetes management, exercise is an equally critical component and is often underutilized. For anyone managing diabetes, understanding the relationship between exercise and blood sugar regulation can be a game changer.

The Science Behind Exercise and Blood Sugar

When we exercise, our muscles use glucose as a source of energy. This simple fact has profound implications for people managing diabetes. Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, meaning the body uses insulin to move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells more efficiently. This is not a short-term effect. With consistent effort, exercise can help stabilize blood sugar for long-term health improvement.

Impact of Different Types of Exercise on Blood Sugar

Different types of exercise affect blood sugar in different ways:

Aerobic exercise: Walking, cycling, and swimming can elevate the heart rate and burn calories. Aerobic exercise is a rhythmic and repetitive physical activity that uses the body’s large muscle groups. It helps lower blood sugar during and immediately after the activity.
Weight-bearing exercise: Resistance training, such as weightlifting and bodyweight exercises, builds muscle mass, which increases the body’s capacity to store glucose.

Benefits of Exercise Beyond Blood Sugar

While the main focus of diabetes is often blood sugar management, the benefits of regular exercise extend far beyond that. Here are some reasons to begin and maintain an exercise routine:

Improved heart health: Diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Exercise lowers blood pressure, improves cholesterol levels, and strengthens the heart.
Weight management: Excess weight can exacerbate insulin resistance. An exercise routine, combined with a balanced diet, can support sustainable weight loss and management.
Better sleep quality: Regular exercise can help regulate sleep cycles for more restorative rest.
Enhanced energy levels: Although it may seem counterintuitive, exercising can increase one’s energy levels throughout the day.
Mood boost: Physical activity releases endorphins, reducing stress and elevating mood.

Building the Right Exercise Routine

Starting a new exercise routine can be intimidating if you have been inactive for a while. The key is to start small and gradually build up your routine. It is equally important to find activities you enjoy. Exercising does not have to mean hitting the gym. Dancing, gardening, bowling, hiking, martial arts, playing with kids or grandkids, household chores, or any activity that gets your body moving counts as exercise.

Consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Check your blood sugar levels before and after exercise, particularly when engaged in a new activity, to see how your body responds and help prevent hypoglycemia. Be consistent and aim for at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise weekly, plus resistance training twice a week.

Proper health care is particularly important for those who are managing diabetes. Our experienced agent can help you find a health plan that suits your needs at the best available rates.

5 Things to Consider When Choosing a New Doctor

Looking for a new doctor? Maybe you are considering switching healthcare plans, recently moved, or need a change. Finding the right medical professional to work with is vital in managing your health. Your primary care physician is your “home base.” Your doctor must be someone you can trust and feel comfortable with when communicating about your health.

When you are enrolled in a private insurance plan, such as a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) or a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), it is advised that you choose from the list of doctors in the network. With an HMO, you cannot use a doctor out of network except in an emergency. With a PPO, you can go to a doctor who is out of network but will pay more for their services than you do for in-network providers.

Find Out Which Doctors Are in Your Network

HMOs and PPOs cover visits to doctors within their network of approved providers. You can find a directory of providers on their website. You can also get a list of network providers by calling the number on your membership card, and they will send you a booklet by mail.

Locate a Doctor Whose Expertise Meets Your Needs

Once you have the list, look through the available doctors and find the medical professional specializing in your individual health concerns.

Internal medicine: Focused on diagnosing and treating diseases affecting adults’ internal organs.
Pediatric and family medicine: Addresses diseases and health problems common to children and youth and general medical expertise.
OB–GYN: Obstetrics and gynecology.
Osteopathic medicine approaches health in a holistic fashion, which may include preventative measures or a hands-on technique rather than the use of drugs as a first line of resort.

Ask Friends and Family for Referrals

Word of mouth may be all you need to identify a doctor that works for you. Talk to your friends and family about the doctors they see.

Check Online Reviews

Google Reviews can shed light on a particular medical practice or provider. There will always be some sour apples, but if you see most of the reviews indicate patients are happy and well cared for, it’s a good sign that you will be, too.

Consider Travel and Convenience

Choosing a doctor closer to your home, office, or business is always better. If you expect to visit your doctor regularly, reducing the commute time can save minutes and gas money. Another factor is availability. Some doctor’s offices are so overloaded with patients that you may need to schedule appointments many weeks or even months in advance. You can find out how busy they are by calling the office.

Hold an In-person Meeting

Once you’ve settled on a doctor or the top three, schedule a visit to meet in person. If it seems like the perfect match, your search ends there. If you feel uncomfortable, move on to the next best option.

A Good Health Plan Gives You Access to Better Doctors

There is hope if you find it challenging to work with your current doctor or constantly run into issues not easily covered by your current healthcare plan. Our health insurance agents can enroll you in the right healthcare plan, leading to a better doctor. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

What is an HSA, and Is It Right for Me?

You have options when it comes to managing your health insurance. Many services are offered free of charge. An HSA or health savings account is not insurance but can be a viable option for covering health costs.

What is an HSA?

An HSA is a personal savings account for specified healthcare costs. The account allows you to set aside funds and withdraw from the account without paying taxes when the funds are used for medical expenses. An HSA complements your health insurance by covering the cost of copayments and deductibles.

What Does an HSA Cover?

You can use money from your HSA to cover:

Prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines
Eyeglasses and vision care
Dental care
Chiropractic care
Acupuncture
Lab tests
X-rays
Feminine hygiene products
First-aid supplies
Out-of-pocket costs to meet insurance deductibles

What Tax Benefits Does an HSA Offer?

There are three main ways an HSA can offer tax benefits:

Contributions: Money you place in an HSA can be claimed as a deductible on your tax return.
Growth: Money contributed to your HSA can earn interest.
Withdrawals: You do not have to pay tax on funds you use to pay for qualifying expenses.

Is An HSA Available to Individuals with All Types of Insurance?

No. An HSA is only available to individuals with High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs). An HDHP is a type of health insurance that offers lower monthly premiums in exchange for a higher deductible.

HDHPs are typically a good option for those who expect few medical expenses, are generally healthy, and want to save on monthly premiums. If you have a lot of medical costs, an HDHP may not be the best choice.

Where Can I Sign Up For an HSA?

Health savings accounts are available through:

Banks
Credit Unions
Investment firms
Your employer

Before opening an HSA, you must enroll in an HDHP. If you have questions about whether your insurance qualifies as an HDHP, our health insurance agents can help. Call today.

When Might an HSA Not Be Right for Me?

While an HSA can offer tax advantages, it may not be for everyone. You may not want to open an HSA if:

You expect to have a lot of medical expenses.
You prefer a lower deductible health plan.
You have other financial priorities.
You plan to enroll in Medicare soon.

After enrolling in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA.

Your HSA Is Yours to Keep

Unlike health insurance plans, which do not provide coverage after you cease premium payments, a health savings account is always yours to keep. Like a personal bank account, the contributions to your HSA will remain with you even if you change your insurance, switch employers, or stop making contributions. They can always be used later to cover your medical needs, including after you retire or enroll in Medicare.

Protect Your Health and Future with the Right Plan

Whether you are considering opening an HSA or not, enrolling in a health plan that suits your needs is vital. Contact our firm today to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable health insurance agents. Let us help set you on the path to a healthier future.

Why is Sitting the New Smoking?

Smoking kills 500,000 people a year in our country, according to the American Lung Association. It is a tragedy, considering it is the number one preventable cause of death in the U.S. When people say, “sitting is the new smoking,” the words represent a feeling more than a statistical fact, but it is a valid problem.

How Much Do Americans Sit?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Americans spend between 6.5 and 8 hours sitting each day. Many will spend this time as desk workers, but common pastimes like television, reading, or playing computer games involve sitting for extended periods.

What’s So Bad About Sitting?

Prolonged sitting, and therefore general inactivity of the body, has a high potential for adverse health consequences. Some of the outcomes of an overly sedentary lifestyle can include:

Poor heart health
Weight gain
Depression
Dementia
High blood pressure
Low metabolism
Blood clots
Back and spine issues
Weak muscles

Some studies have even linked sitting for too long with an increased cancer risk.

Get Active to Stay Healthy

Don’t get too depressed by the horrible health possibilities associated with being stuck in a chair most of the day. It can be easy to build more activity into your routine.

Take the stairs: Use the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator when at work or out shopping.
Take a walk: Get off the bus early and walk the last few blocks to your destination.
Park down the block: If you’re driving, park further away and enjoy a few minutes outside before you arrive.
Bring the bike: If feasible, or outside work times, consider biking instead of bringing the car.
Adjust your desk: Standing desks are a somewhat new thing; consider adding one to your workspace and spending part of the day standing.
Walk and talk: Try taking phone calls while standing or pacing to keep your body moving.
Do some chores: Walk the dog, wash the car, mow the lawn. All these activities will get your body moving and contribute to better health.
Get health insurance: When all else fails, make sure a trip to the doctor is not out of the question.

How To Get a Better Deal on Health Insurance

The younger and healthier you are, the lower your premiums will be. If you don’t have age on your side, you can still pay less if you are in good health. One way to start is to find ways to sit less during the day. From there, the CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity each week (about 30 minutes on weekdays).

Protect Your Health with Health Insurance

Getting active is a great way to stay healthy. Health insurance will protect you if a health issue arises, no matter your health status. More than that, advanced healthcare plans can help cover preventative visits and care so you stop illnesses before they start. Contact one of our knowledgeable healthcare insurance agents today to get help choosing a plan that suits your needs.

New Year, New Healthcare Coverage Updates

However you celebrate it, a New Year is here, with a fresh outlook for 2025. Life changes rapidly. Healthcare coverage is meant to change with you so that as your needs, family, and income expand or contract, you always have the help you need. Here’s a quick rundown on ensuring your coverage is up to date so you get the right amount of savings this year.

How Do I Update My Health Insurance Policy?

The government operates the Health Insurance Marketplace, where enrollees can search for the perfect plan. Open Enrollment runs from November 1 to January 15 each year.

Log in: To get started, log in to your account on HealthCare.gov. If this is your first time purchasing health insurance, you can create a new account on the same page.
Update your plan: Your account home page will help you review the details of your existing policy. You’ll want to ensure that changes to your household size, income, or other factors are updated. If you report your estimated income too high, you may miss out on some benefits; if you under-report your income, you may receive more savings, but these will have to be paid back when you do your taxes.
Compare policies: With updated account information, check what plans are available. Consider each policy’s benefits, deductibles, and premiums before choosing. Pro tip: The healthcare insurance agents at our firm are licensed to help guide and advise you on the best plans for your needs and are required to put your best interests first; if you have questions, we can help.
Enroll in a new plan: If you find a better plan, it’s time to sign up. Our insurance agent can help you complete the paperwork online or in person.

Can’t I Enroll in Health Insurance at Any Time?

No, you cannot enroll in health insurance at any time. To organize the process of managing hundreds of thousands of people applying for coverage, Open Enrollment is only during the November 1 to January 15 period each year. You might qualify for an exception called a “Special Enrollment Period (SEP).” You become eligible when significant life events require changes to your coverage, like a new baby or changing jobs. Your agent will be able to help you understand if you qualify for an SEP.

How Do I Update “Off-Market” Health Insurance?

Some health insurance policies are purchased from individual companies that do not provide their services on the government-run Marketplace. If you have an “off-market” policy, you must make any changes with your insurance company directly.

Protect Your Health in the New Year with An Updated Policy

Make your New Year’s resolutions for a healthier you and include a comprehensive health plan. Our healthcare insurance agents can help guide you through the process, answer your questions, and make it easy to get through the necessary paperwork. There is no extra cost to you to receive our help; give us a call to schedule a free consultation today.

New Year’s Resolutions for Policy Holders

The New Year is traditionally the time we make decisions about the future. Most New Year’s resolutions focus on personal health or family and business goals. Don’t forget to include greater peace of mind and security for yourself and those you love as part of your New Year’s list. By reviewing your policy coverage and making the necessary changes based on your other annual targets, you will be well on your way to having a happier and more secure New Year.

Three Steps to Start Your New Year’s Insurance Policy Review

Changes are ahead, but are your personal insurance policies up-to-date? When you sit down to write out your New Year’s resolutions, be sure your policy matches your current situation by doing the following:

Review your coverage: If you have not recently reviewed your insurance policies, it is time to look at what is covered and at what value.
Note needed changes: As time passes, life comes with changes. It may be time to get more coverage, new coverage, a better deal, or another change that would benefit you.
Fill in the gaps: Contact one of our local insurance agents to help you understand the fine print on your existing insurance and discuss new options.

Do My New Year’s Resolutions Affect My Insurance Coverage?

Yes. Every life change is also an opportunity to ensure insurance protects you against avoidable losses. Here are some big decisions that may be on your list this year that will affect your coverage.

Improving your health: If you’re embarking on a major weight loss journey, the good news is that this could lower your risk rating and policy premium. Some health insurance also offers coverage for weight loss programs; ask your agent if you are unsure about yours.
Saving money: Some life insurance policies provide a cash value component that acts as a savings cushion that can be used in times of need.
Taking a road trip: Many choose to engage in this adventure, but it is always better when carried out with a reliable safety net of personal and auto insurance that covers any potential mishaps along the way.
Getting married: If you are looking forward to getting married in the next 12 months, be sure that you are ready to expand your coverage to include your spouse.
Growing your family: Children bring so much life and joy and many future responsibilities. Ensure your coverage is expanded to include considerations for your child’s future education. Our agents can also help you set up a life insurance policy for your child that will grow with them.
Buying a home: If you are taking the big step towards home ownership in 2025, congratulations! Home insurance can ensure that your home is protected from fires, floods, earthquakes, and other risks. Our agents can walk you through everything you need to know.
Remodeling an existing home: If you’re considering adding an extension or renovating your kitchen, your property’s inherent value will increase, and your policy will need to be adjusted appropriately.

Make Your New Year’s Resolutions a Big Success with Proper Coverage

As you set out to make your New Year a successful one, don’t forget one of your resolutions should be peace of mind for you and those you love. Following these guidelines and talking with one of our agents about any gaps and changes in your coverage for 2025 will help set you up for a truly happy and safe New Year.

Mental Health & Oral Health: Examining the Connections

Your emotional state has an impact on how you dress and take care of yourself. If you’re feeling blue, you’re more likely to neglect self-care, such as brushing or washing your teeth. If one were to visit an institution and examine the inmates’ oral health, one would likely find some pretty shocking conditions. But what about the everyday person? Is there a connection between the condition of your teeth and your state of mind?

Linking the Symptoms

Bruxism: Bruxism is the technical term for teeth grinding. A tense jaw from stress, anxiety, or nutritional deficiencies can contribute to wearing down enamel, creating tooth fractures, and causing jaw pain. Jaw pain can ruin a good mood. Avoiding stimulants, like caffeine and some medications, and using a mouth guard can help reduce bruxism and avoid damaging the surfaces of your teeth.

Cavities and Tooth Decay: Cavities and decay are a direct result of not brushing one’s teeth and failing to remove foreign particles from the mouth after eating. These particles collect and grow bacteria, which produce acid byproducts. The acid eats away the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Failing to brush regularly will eventually lead to tooth decay. Change your habits and brush after every meal. Clean teeth and fresh breath can help you feel confident and refreshed.

Dry Mouth: Psychiatric medications can cause dry mouth. Pharmaceuticals block some nervous system functions, preventing the normal flow of saliva. Saliva neutralizes the acidity of bacteria in the mouth and helps rebuild the tooth enamel with minerals. Without it, teeth and gums are more vulnerable. If you are considering a medication with side effects, get a complete physical examination first. Studies have shown a substantial portion of “mental disorders” are caused by physical ailments, like hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or other conditions or illnesses. Your mood could improve significantly if these ailments are treated rather than masking symptoms that should be addressed before taking medication.

Oral Infections: If you are connected to another person you think may be one of those “vampire personalities,” the connection will increase your stress levels, making you feel anxious, inadequate, or clumsy for no apparent reason. Research has found chronic stress reduces immune system response, opening you up to unwanted illnesses, like oral infections. The best way to improve your mental health? Avoid toxic personalities! The more you surround yourself with people who support you, the more likely you will have good health and happiness. Your good mood can even make you feel encouraged to smile more often.

Prevent Oral Woes with Proactive Healthcare

You don’t have to wait until you have a toothache to see a dentist. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you see a dentist for routine cleaning and check-ups twice a year. Many healthcare insurance policies offer dental programs that cover the cost of cleanings and reduce the cost of various treatments.

Take Better Care of Yourself and Feel Better

Clean teeth and a positive outlook on life are connected. All you do to maintain oral hygiene and health contributes to your overall mental well-being. Take care of your teeth and yourself for a win-win situation. If you’d like to know more about health insurance policies that can help, contact one of our agents today. We have access to the most reasonably-priced options with the best coverage and are happy to meet with you to review your existing health insurance or get you on a plan that works for you.

6 Ways to Cope with Holiday Stress & Calm Your Mind

The holidays bring joy, celebrations, travel, and gatherings of friends and family. For many of us, the holidays are times of extreme stress. The holidays prove to be unhealthy for you physically or mentally. Here are a few tips to keep your stress low and your mind calm during the festive season.

1. Stick to a Budget

We know that buying “the best” gift for everyone on your list is a goal. Try to take some pressure off your wallet by managing your spending. Set a limit for what you want to spend this year, and instead of just buying the first thing you like, decide what you are looking for. Or at least set a price limit for each person so you have a safeguard against overspending. Budgeting can help you avoid worries about bills that could be hard to handle.

2. Stay Organized

The holidays are the “happiest” and busiest time of the year. If you’ve been invited to several parties or are expected to host, cook, clean, take the kids out, visit relatives, etc., this year, your feeling of “it’s all a little too much” is not unwarranted. Take time out of your busy schedule to write everything on a to-do list or a calendar so you can go about your purchasing, baking, and preparations in an organized fashion. Handle one activity at a time and check it off the list. Sounds simple? This technique is surprisingly effective for stress reduction.

3. Know When to Say “Thank You, But No.”

There is a time when it isn’t feasible to do everything at once. Know your limits, and don’t be afraid to decline an invitation and spend a quiet night on the couch. Of course, you can make all the commitments you want, but don’t feel obligated to say “yes” to every invitation.

4. Go Easy on the Caffeine and Alcohol

When enjoyed in moderation, a hot cup of coffee to start the day or a glass of wine to unwind can be wonderful. During the holidays, drinking too much coffee can give you the jitters. Restrict the amount of coffee and alcoholic beverages you consume to manage your mood. These beverages inhibit your B vitamins, essential nutrients for brain and nervous system function. If you feel stressed, consider food and drink rich in B nutrients instead; B6 is involved in serotonin production, while B1 is vital for cognitive function. Severe B1 deficiency has been linked to irritability, poor memory, and confusion.

5. Set Aside Time for Self-Care

Amid all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, schedule some “me time.” Ensure you get enough sleep, remember to drink water, eat healthily as much as possible, and get out to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and some physical activity. Ensure your health insurance policy works for you and schedule your yearly physical. Don’t let the holidays stop you from self-care.

6. Focus on the Positive

It is easy to have differences in opinion to spur conflict in families, but focusing on what we have in common is much more rewarding. By reinforcing the positive and concentrating on what we are grateful for in family and friends, everyone can make their time together more enjoyable.

Let Go of Stress This Season

While you are busy making sure everyone else has a good time, don’t forget that you deserve to be happy this season, too. Health insurance is one of the many ways to safeguard your peace of mind as we move forward into the new year. If you want to update your policy to ensure you are getting the most out of your coverage, please get in touch with one of our agents, who would be happy to discuss your options.

Category: Health Insurance