Summer means time for surfing, sand, BBQs, 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.
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.
Families and friends love a 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. For some tasty and healthy recipe grilling ideas, check out these healthy ideas from our friends over at Cooking Light magazine.
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.
Making sure the essentials are packed is common before a flight, but so is overpacking. While most people do not link luggage to injury, it is also quite common.
Packing light can prevent injuries such as strains, pulls, and tears. If packing more for an extended trip, use proper techniques for heavy lifting. Bend at the knees, and use your leg muscles, and avoid twisting or rotating your spine.
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. And these high-protein, low-carb breakfasts are ones you do not want to miss this summer!
The summer sun may make a cocktail irresistible. However, alcohol fails to replenish water stores and dehydrates the body even more.
While alcohol can still be consumed, do so in moderation. Males are recommended to drink no more than two alcoholic beverages daily. Women are limited to one. Sip on water between drinks, too.
