How to stay Healthy this summer

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Summer is finally here!!! Its a great time to be outside and enjoy your time with family and friends. Sun is out and the warm weather is here. People are working out outdoors and the grills are hot and ready to go….What can we do to stay cool, comfortable and hydrated? Here are some tips to help you stay healthy this summer.

*Watch the sun. When we think of summer, we think of sunny days spent outside. Make sure you take proper precautions to protect your skin against burns and long-term damage such as skin cancer. Apply sunscreen and lip balm with SPF of 30 or higher. Discard if the expiration date has passed. Limit sun exposure from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM when the sun is its strongest! Wear loose fitting, light colored clothing and a hat with a brim, and always wear sunglasses with a high UV rating (50 or higher.)

Note: Even if its cloudy out take precautions and apply sunscreen!!

*Eat fresh. One of the best things about summer is access to fresh and health fruits and vegetables. Better yet: many of summer’s fruits and vegetables are brimming with health benefits. Use this time to focus on eating your colors –Cucumbers, Citrus fruits, bananas, melons, tomatoes, sprouts, spinach, summer squash and watercress are examples of cooling foods to eat during the summer months.

*Stay Cool. Heat-related illness is serious. But that doesn’t mean you need to stay indoors all day. Drink lots of water, wear loose fitting clothing and exercise in the early morning or evening to keep your body temperature in check. Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and find a cool place to lie down if you don’t feel well.

*Stay In Shape. We’re often more conscious of what we eat in the summer since we’re more likely to squeeze into shorts, bathing suits and sleeveless tops. Summertime is a great time to start healthy habits that can last all year, such as cutting back on high-fat meats, high sugary drinks and mayo-drenched salads, adding healthy grains to your diet instead of chips and snacks, and drinking lots of water. It’s also a great time to take advantage of longer days and start an exercise plan. Talk to your doctor about what exercise program is right for you. Whether you are traveling, trying to save money, or just do not like the gym, I’ve come up with a few tips and ideas to help you still totally rock the fitness game. If your lucky to have access to a pool, swimming is a perfect way to cool off and get your cardio in. No matter where you are, running is another way to get your cardio in and de-stress. Yoga is another way to both relax and help you feel great!! Yoga Is a versatile activity that allows you to improve your strenght and flexibility. Biking is a great way to get around and enjoy the views. Do you want to feel like a kid again? Jump rope is a fun way to get your cardio in and you can take the jump rope away on vacation. Let’s not forget walking!!! Its the best way to stay moving and active…What about dancing??? Whether it is at a club or a solo dance party in your room, dancing is a fun way to burn some extra calories. Remember, summer is a time to be free and enjoy yourself. So get your headphones on or invite a friend out and go get active…..