Summer means a time for surfing, sand, barbeques, pool parties and the occasional getaway. Many of these plans are also an open invitation for you to get sick, especially if you are traveling our lounging outside.
If any of your summer plans revolve around these activities, here are 6 ways you can ensure you stay healthy.
6. Apply Your Daily SPF
No one likes a sunburn and no one likes those funky tan lines. Applying sunscreen is important.
Not only does sunscreen help prevent skin cancer, but it has also been proven to help slow down your skin’s aging process. Severe sun burns (also known as sun poisoning) can also lead to extreme dehydration, if you aren’t careful, which could require a stay in the hospital.
A sunscreen with a lower SPF can be just as effective as one with a higher SPF. However, people with a fairer complexion should use a higher SPF, due to less melanin in their skin. Lotions are usually a little more effective than sprays, just because there is less of a chance for streaking.
5. Embrace “Healthier” Barbeques
Families and friends love to have a good barbeque during the summer, but instead of the traditional staples, broaden your palette a little.
Instead of the traditional burgers and brats, opt for grilled chicken or try some fresh fish on the grill.
These portions of tasty protein are much healthier than hamburgers or hot dogs, and they leave you feeling fuller longer. For some tasty and healthy recipe grilling ideas, check out these healthy ideas from our friends over at Cooking Light magazine.
4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Water is your best bet for a summer beverage. Sure, you can still enjoy the occasional cocktail, you just need to drink more water if you are going to be outdoors for more than a few hours.
For every hour that you are in the sun, you should drink at least 1-2 glasses, or at least 1-2 bottles. This prevents dehydration and will replenish your energy levels while you take in the rays.
3. Travel Light
Although you want to make sure that you have everything you need when catching a flight to your vacation destination, it’s important that you pack light—especially if you are a frequent traveler.
Most people don’t think of luggage leading to injury, but actually, it’s quite common.
Packing light can prevent injuries such as strains, pulls, and tears. If you do need to pack more because you are going on an extended trip, make sure you are familiar with proper techniques for heavy lifting. Bend at the knees, and use your leg muscles, and avoid twisting or rotating your spine.
Ideally, you want to save money by not checking your bags, but it may be a good idea to reconsider, especially if you are traveling alone. A checked bag fee is cheaper than a visit to the doctor.
2. Eat Breakfast!
Too many times too many people forget to eat breakfast in the morning before heading outside. Without proper nutrition first thing in the morning, your body basically wilts in the summer sun, potentially leading to heat overexposure, dehydration, or fainting.
Eat a breakfast high in protein, like eggs, with a side of fruit or whole grains. Plus, a healthy breakfast first thing in the morning will jump-start your metabolism.
1. Avoid Over-Intoxication
It’s understandable that during summer you want to have a good time, but it’s important that you cool it on the alcoholic beverages if you are going to be outside for more than a few hours.
When you drink alcohol in the sun, it dehydrates you further, causing you to perspire and urinate more. Alcohol fails to replenish your water stores, so it’s important that you drink water between alcoholic beverages.
Source: http://www.bistromd.com
