Staying healthy is a goal many of us try to have all year long, but when summer comes, sometimes those healthy habits take a vacation. So here are a few ways to stay healthy through those warm summer days!
- Apply Sunscreen Daily
The importance of applying sunscreen cannot be stressed enough. Sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer and the risk of severe sunburns, also known as sun poisoning. If not careful, this can lead to extreme dehydration and a trip to the hospital. Sunscreen has also been proven to help slow down your skin’s aging process.
As a general rule, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a 30 SPF minimum. One ounce, or about the size of a shot glass, is considered enough to cover the body.
- Embrace “Healthier” BBQs
Families and friends love good BBQ during the summer. But instead of the traditional staples, broaden the palette a little. Rather than regular burgers and brats drenched in BBQ sauce, embrace fresher flavors. This may include grilled chicken or fish. Grill fruits and veggies for a fresh side dish. These portions of tasty protein are much healthier than hamburgers or hot dogs, and they leave you feeling fuller longer.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Water is always the beverage of choice throughout the entire year. However, water is severely important during the summer when dehydration is at greater risk. Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily and more if exercising or outdoors for more than a few hours. For every hour in the sun, drink at least 1 to 2 glasses of water. This prevents dehydration and replenishes energy levels while soaking in the rays.
- Eat Breakfast
Breakfast may take the backseat with all the fun awaiting outside. But without proper nutrition first thing in the morning, the body can wilt in the summer sun and potentially lead to heat overexposure, dehydration, or fainting. Eating a healthy breakfast can deter these risks, balance blood sugars, and heighten energy levels to kickstart the day. A morning meal should be balanced with protein, healthy fat, and fiber.
Keeping these healthy habits will have you fit for fall when summer’s heat wanes and those cooler days start coming around!