With summer finally here, many of us are looking forward to some well-deserved beach time, outdoor activities, barbeques, and other fun-filled summer activities. However, sweet treats, excessive sun exposure, and the tendency to go overboard is a temptation many wrestle with when the weather heats up. The carefree summer lifestyle can quickly take over, making a person forget about their health. During the hottest months of the year, it is crucial that you protect and take care of your skin and overall health. Luckily, knowing which summer health tips to follow can make it easy to stay healthy during the hot summer months.
During the summer, special precautions need to be followed. Despite the temptations of summer, it is still essential that you take care of your mind and body. This summer, stay fresh and healthy by following these helpful summer health tips.
Summer Health Tip#1: Avoid Dehydration
Dehydration can happen to anyone, so it is vital that you remain hydrated in the summer heat by eating hydrating foods and drinking plenty of water. Carry a bottle of water with you when you are out, especially if you will be in the sun for a prolonged period of time. Besides water, water-rich fruits and vegetables, natural fruit juices (not from concentrate), and coconut water are a great way to add some electrolytes to your body.
Summer Health Tip#2: Watch Out for the Sun
When the sun rays are at their strongest, you become more susceptible to sunburns, fatigue, and dehydration, so try to plan your outdoor time around the sun. During the hours of 11 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., the sun can be hard on your body, so try to plan for early morning activities or activities later in the evening. Of course, when possible, avoid direct sun exposure and make sure you protect your lips and skin by using a “broad spectrum” sunscreen.
Summer Health Tip#3: Don’t Stop Moving
Even though it’s hot and humid outside, don’t get lazy about your exercise routine. If you have a set routine, some adjustments are needed, and if you don’t have one, the summer is the perfect time to start. To help digestion, blood flow, circulation, and your overall well-being, make sure you get in some daily exercise. Whether it’s a walk around the lake, swimming laps, or taking an early morning or late night run, make sure you find a routine that works for you and stick to it.
Summer Health Tip#4: Be Aware
When you are outside, it is important to be aware of nature’s pests. You need to be vigilant about mosquitos, especially at dawn and dusk. To help limit the threat of mosquitos, it always helps to clear out any standing water on your property, wear bug spray when you go outside, and fix any broken screens in your home. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, make sure you know how to identify poison ivy and poison sumac so that you can avoid its itchy rash.
Summer Health Tip#5: Protect Your Eyes
If you are doing any yard or construction work this summer, don’t forget to wear protective eyewear to protect your vision. Also, make sure you have a good pair of sunglasses so you can protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet A and B rays. Look for a pair that blocks out at least 99% of the sun’s rays to help prevent premature wrinkles around the eyes and the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. However, watch out for cheap sunglasses, which may not provide the level of protection that you need.
