It’s summer and the flowers are blooming, birds are singing and there’s sunshine everywhere. That should alert you to the need for sunscreen and healthy sunning. Summer is a time to enjoy the great outdoors for many people, but too much sun can cause problems, like sunstroke, sun burn and heat stroke. In order to stay healthy this summer do the things that promote good health and minimize potential dangers.
Do safe sunning.
What is safe sunning? It’s getting adequate sunshine to help your body make vitamin D, but not overdoing it. Vitamin D is extremely important to help prevent serious conditions like osteoporosis, low immune response, muscle weakness and cancer. Few foods are naturally high in vitamin D, and the best way to get it is via the sun. Where you live, what you wear, when you sun, the time of year and the color of your skin makes a difference in how much exposure you should get. For most people north of Atlanta, getting 10-30 minutes of sunlight three times a week while wearing a tank top and shorts is adequate exposure for people with light skin. Wear sunscreen at all other times.
Take advantage of summer fresh fruits and vegetables.
Eating healthy plays a huge role in your overall health and there’s no better time to start a program of healthy eating than during the summer. Cut out food with added sugar and focus on eating more vegetables during the summer months. One of the leading causes of preventable deaths is obesity and summer is a great time to lose weight. Opt for a healthy diet that includes fruits and vegetables of all colors. The various colors mean it has a variety of phytonutrients to boost your overall health.
Enjoy the great outdoors and get exercise.
Summer is the perfect time to start a program of exercise. You can even exercise at home in your back yard. Boost the benefits by taking off your shoes and taking advantage of grounding. If there’s a gym available, find the best time for you to go and make it an appointment on your schedule. Consistency counts. Exercise not only burns calories, but it also increases the body’s natural antioxidants and lengthens the telomeres that protect the chromosomes. It can reduce your risk of many serious diseases, lower your blood pressure and balance your blood sugar levels.
- Get adequate hydration. Carry a bottle of water with you at all times and sip on it regularly. Drinking more fluid during the summer can help prevent dehydration that can have serious consequences.
- Have a regular sleep schedule. Sleep is often under-rated. Too little sleep not only can negatively affect the heart, it also can cause an imbalance in the hunger/satiety hormones that will make you feel hungrier.
- Stay safe when walking or exercising outside. If you’re walking, walk with a partner or make sure someone knows your path. Carry water with you for hydrating. To avoid the heat, walk or exercise early in the morning.
- Enjoy family and friends. Forming social bonds is important to your health. Take time with family or friends to enjoy Mother Nature. Walk in the park, go to the beach and enjoy the colors of summer. Spending time with friends and nature can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve health.
For more information, contact us today at Travel Trim