Summer is a great season for fun activities, but too much heat and sun can be a risk to your health. Here’s how to enjoy summer while staying healthy.
Summer is a great season for fun activities, but too much heat and sun can be a risk to your health. Here’s how to enjoy summer while staying healthy.
Protect Your Skin from the Summer Sun
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can burn your skin and lead to cancer. When you go outside, protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, and remember to reapply regularly. Be sure to also protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that block UV light and a wide-brimmed hat.
Stay Cool While Doing Outdoor Activities
Spending time outside is a great way to get fresh air and vitamin D, just don’t forget to take steps to stay healthy. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and to help your body sweat and stay cool. If you plan on exercising outside, do so early in the day or in the evening, when it’s often cooler, rather than mid-day. Take breaks in the shade and avoid prolonged sun exposure. If it’s too hot to exercise outside, try indoor workouts at your home or at a gym.
Prevent Bites from Bugs and Ticks
Before adventuring outside, apply insect repellent to help prevent bites from mosquitos and ticks. It can also be helpful to carry a first aid kit so you’re prepared in the event of bites or stings. When you come back inside, check yourself and family members for ticks, which can cause diseases if not removed in a timely manner.
Enjoy Summertime Foods
There are lots of delicious and nutritious fruits and vegetables to enjoy in the summer, like strawberries, peaches, melon, zucchini, carrots, corn, and more. Be sure to wash fruit and vegetables before eating or cutting them to ensure you remove any bacteria.
Get Plenty of Rest
Getting enough sleep is always important, including in the summer. This season can be busy with vacations, festivals, sports, outings with friends, and much more. Remember to get enough sleep so you have energy for the season’s activities and to support your overall physical and mental health.
We wish you a happy and healthy summer!