How to have a happy—and healthy—Valentine’s Day

It’s February and that means candy hearts, boxed chocolates and heart-shaped goodies everywhere you look. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet and staying active, can be challenging during any holiday. Here are some tips to help you and your loved ones stick to healthy habits and reduce your cancer risk while enjoying a sweet Valentine’s Day:

Cook a romantic dinner for two. Planning a dinner date at home can be a very romantic gesture. You can choose recipes that are healthy (and delicious) that feature vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean meat. A large 2021 study by the American Heart Association found that three servings of vegetables (not starchy ones, like potatoes) and two of fruit (not juice) every day resulted in a 10% lower risk of death from cancer. You can even start the evening with a homemade charcuterie board. Don’t forget the music and candles!

Consider alternative gifts to chocolate. Not feeling chocolate this year? Send flowers or a fruit basket, which has natural sugar as well as healthy nutrients. If you do choose to indulge your sweet tooth a little, consider dark chocolate, which is packed with antioxidants, making it a better option than milk chocolate. Savor your treats over several weeks—stick chocolates in the fridge or freezer to enjoy in moderation when you want.

Plan a date around fitness. Nurture your relationship through healthy and fun activities that keep you and your partner active. Consider skiing, hiking, taking dance lessons together, ice skating or even rock climbing for your next date. Not only do these activities promote togetherness, but they can also lead to a healthier lifestyle.

Check your mate. It’s so important to know your own body so you can recognize any changes that need to get checked out by a health care provider—but sometimes, partners are the ones who notice these changes first! Whether in bed, in the shower or anywhere you find yourself in the nude with your partner, take a few minutes to look for these changes:

• Breasts: Feel for abnormal lumps, tenderness or changes to breasts.

• Skin: Follow the ABCDE rule when checking out your partner’s skin:

• Asymmetry (one half of the mole doesn’t match the other)

• Border irregularity

• Color that is not uniform

• Diameter greater than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)

• Evolving size, shape or color

• Testicles: Feel for any abnormal lumps, tenderness or changes to the testes.

Take the opportunity to make this Valentine’s Day special by getting active, making healthy choices and looking out for your loved one. There’s nothing sweeter than saving lives!