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December 2024 Newsletter

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“December invites us to embrace the joy of the season while nurturing our health, taking mindful steps to stay strong, balanced, and energized for all the celebrations and winter wonders ahead.”

–  Dr. V

As the holiday magic fills the air and December’s chill settles in, the team at Los Gatos Doc is here to support you in staying merry and healthy through the season’s festivities. This month, we’re focusing practical ways to maintain your well-being while enjoying all the warmth and excitement the holidays bring.

In this December newsletter, read about our upcoming holiday closure dates, manage seasonal stress, and thrive in the winter months. Whether it’s navigating busy schedules, savoring festive moments, or staying proactive about your health, we’re here to help you embrace the season with confidence and joy.

As we celebrate this time of connection and cheer, our commitment to your health remains steadfast. Thank you for being part of the Los Gatos Doc community. We wish you a December filled with happiness, meaningful moments, and the gift of great health.

Here’s to a joyful, healthy holiday season!

What Our Patients Are Saying

“Office is clean and he doesn’t keep his patients waiting too long. Dr V is very professional and focused on the health of the patient. I love his team as well. One of the best doctors!”

-L.C.

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Access to Care During the Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, we want to inform you of our upcoming closure dates. Los Gatos Doc will be closed on the following days in observance of Christmas and New Year’s Day.
  • Monday, December 25th (Christmas)
  • Tuesday, Dec 26th
  • Monday, January 1st (New Year’s Day)
  • Tuesday, January 2nd
Although we won’t be available during these four days, we understand that unforeseen medical needs can arise. In case of an urgent medical issue during our closure period, we recommend contacting the El Camino Urgent Care Centers (please call to verify that the urgent care is in network with your health insurance. If it is not, please call your insurance to find urgent cares that are in network). Dr. V is on staff at both El Camino Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital, ensuring that you receive the same quality care you are accustomed to.

Alternatively, if your situation requires immediate attention, please visit your local emergency department where they can provide prompt medical assistance.

For non-emergency matters or any other concerns, our dedicated team will still be accessible through our patient portal. Simply reach out to us there and we will respond as soon as we return.

Wishing you a wonderful Holiday Season filled with happiness and gratitude!

In Case You Missed It / Reading Corner:

As we step into the new year, it’s time to focus on setting attainable health goals that lead to lasting wellness. At Los Gatos Doc, we encourage patients to adopt SMART goals, prioritize preventive care, and focus on overall wellness. From building sustainable eating habits to making physical activity enjoyable, our guide is packed with tips to help you create a healthier and happier 2025.

Let’s make this the year of achievable change! Read our full guide to New Year health planning and let Los Gatos Doc support you every step of the way.

The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and connection, but it can also pose challenges to maintaining your health. At Los Gatos Doc, we’re here to help you strike a balance between enjoying the festivities and staying mindful of your well-being.

From tips on indulging in moderation to prioritizing mental health, our latest blog is packed with actionable advice to help you maintain your wellness during the holidays. Check it out and start this season with a healthy and joyful mindset!

December Wellness Recipes

As the holiday season fills the air, it’s time to celebrate with nourishing recipes that bring joy and support your health during this festive month. This December, discover our collection of wholesome holiday-inspired dishes, from comforting soups to seasonal salads and guilt-free treats. Each recipe is designed to keep you feeling vibrant and energized while embracing the flavors of the season.

Explore our December wellness recipes and savor dishes that bring a balance of indulgence and nourishment to your holiday table!

 

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1 large shallot, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
  • 2-3 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar
  • ⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese
  • ¼ cup pomegranate seeds

Method:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss 1 pound of Brussels sprouts with 1 large sliced shallot, 1 tablespoon oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Spread on a large rimmed baking sheet.
  2. Roast the Brussels sprouts until tender, 20 to 22 minutes. Return to the bowl and toss with 2 to 3 tablespoons vinegar to taste. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup goat cheese and 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds.

Source: Sally’s Baking Addiction

Servings: 14

Ingredients
4 large garlic cloves, finely chopped (1 1/2 tablespoons)

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 (5 pound) 3-rib beef standing rib roast, chine bone removed

Method: 

  1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil; set a wire rack in the pan. Place garlic on a cutting board and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Drag the flat side of a large knife back and forth over the garlic to form a paste. Transfer the paste to a small bowl. Add thyme, rosemary, pepper, oil and the remaining 2 teaspoons salt; stir until thoroughly blended.
  2. Rub the garlic mixture evenly over roast. Place the roast, fat cap up, on the prepared rack on the pan. Refrigerate, uncovered, for 8 hours or overnight.
  3. Remove the roast from the refrigerator 1 hour before cooking; let stand at room temperature.
  4. Place oven rack in lower third of oven; preheat to 275 degrees F.
  5. Roast the prime rib until a thermometer inserted in the thickest portion registers 120 degrees F (for medium-rare), about 2 hours and 30 minutes to 2 hours and 50 minutes, or to 130 degrees F (for medium). Remove from the oven and let rest for 1 hour before serving.

Source: Sally’s Baking Addiction

Servings: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1 frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 6 tablespoons fig jam
  • 1 (4-ounce) log goat cheese

Method: 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Stack 2 large baking sheets on top of each other (this will help keep the bottom from burning) and line with parchment paper. Lay puff pastry on another sheet of parchment and roll it out to about 12 inches. Evenly spread jam over the pastry, leaving ½ inch of 1 edge bare for sealing. Crumble goat cheese on top of the jam. Brush the bare edge with water to help it stick. Starting at the opposite edge, roll the pastry into a log; place seam-side down on a small cutting board and freeze until firm enough to slice, 20 to 30 minutes.
  2. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 10 pieces. Transfer the slices to the prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden brown on the edges, 23 to 25 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Source: Skinny Taste

“December invites us to embrace the magic, cherish the warmth of togetherness, and find joy in the season’s sparkling moments.”

  – Dr. V

As December unfolds, it’s the perfect time to focus on your health and well-being while embracing the joy and wonder of the holiday season. This month encourages us to nurture our wellness goals, practice meaningful self-care, and celebrate the warmth of togetherness amidst the chill of winter. Let the glow of holiday lights and the spirit of giving inspire you to prioritize your health and personal growth.

Thank you for being a valued member of the Los Gatos Doc community. We’re here to support you through this festive season, helping you stay on track with your wellness goals. Reach out or book an appointment today to enjoy the holidays feeling your best!

Warmly,

Dr. V, Adriana, & Jessica

P.S. Don’t forget to visit Los Gatos Doc on Facebook and like us to stay up-to-date on current health issues and receive office updates from your favorite primary care team. Please contact your primary care team by phone at 408.502.6040 or Request an Appointment today with any comments, questions, or concerns.

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