Summer is approaching! That usually means some time off work, maybe a vacation abroad and definitely time in the sun. With all the fun that accompanies the summer, it can sometimes be easy to forget about our health. Hotter temperatures means there is more of a risk of dehydration and sunburn. Luckily, with these five tips on healthy summer habits, you can eliminate these risks and feel great during these summer months.
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Keeping Hydrated
Keeping hydrated is a priority when we are in warmer climates. It can be really easy to forget to drink, and it won’t be until you’re feeling quite sick that you realize that you might be a little dehydrated. Dehydration can cause nausea, headaches and make you feel weak or dizzy. At this point, it’s going to be really hard to re-hydrate yourself which is why it’s best to prevent these symptoms from striking in the first place. We recommend keeping a bottle of water next to you the whole day and ensuring you’re finishing two or three bottles throughout the day. A good rule is to also drink a large glass of cold water before each meal. This will help you remember to drink. The other benefit is it can also give your metabolism a boost. Skip the fruit juices and soda, though! You want to be drinking almost exclusively water for maximum hydration.
If you’re out for some alcoholic drinks, it’s best to go for low sugar options to avoid feeling bloated. But most importantly, drink water in between the alcoholic drinks too.
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Wearing Sunscreen
If you’re going to be outside in the sun, the first thing you need to do is liberally apply sunscreen. In fact, you need to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside in order to allow time for it to absorb into your skin. A broad spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 should be used.
Don’t skimp! You need to ensure you cover your entire face and body, obviously avoiding your eyes and mouth. Another important rule to remember is to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, and more if you are going in water.
If you’re in a really hot climate, it is advisable to avoid being in the sun at all between the hours of 10am and 2pm when the sun is at its hottest. Make sure you always wear protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.
(Pssst- Have you received your IsraelPharm sunscreen yet? Orders going out in the next few weeks include this little gift! Let us know if you like it!)
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Enjoy the seasonal fruits
Another great way to cool down and keep hydrated is to enjoy the seasonal summer fruits. Watermelon and grapes are great examples of fruits high in water content. Of course it is preferable to eat seasonal fruits over other snacks such has cake, chocolate and chips. Fruits provide you with hydration and important vitamins and minerals which help keep you feeling good all summer long. If you want to start dieting, the summer is a great time since there is more seasonal produce available. The challenge then is to continue with these healthy eating habits into the fall!
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Exercise regularly
It might seem difficult to do in the heat, but more options are also available to you during the summer. You’re not restricted to the gym – you can go cycling, swimming or hiking, for example. And since generally we have more time available over the summer months, what better time to start an exercise routine or that yoga class you’ve always wanted to try? Now is the time to get into good exercise habits.
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Stay cool
Take it easy when the sun is strong during the hottest time of the day. During these times, find an indoor activity where there is air conditioning. Or at the very least, stay in the shade. Spending too much time in the sun can cause heatstroke. You can avoid heatstroke by keeping hydrated, staying indoors during the hottest time of the day, applying sunscreen when you do go outside and wearing cool clothing. Cars get extremely hot during the summer months, so never leave anyone inside a parked car for even a minute.
Click here to read about what happens to medication in the heat.
Here’s to a healthy, happy summer! Enjoy!