Staying healthy during the summer requires more than just activities and exercise.
Summer is upon us! Fun in the sun, kids out of school, golf, vacations, camping, swimming, barbecues and much more. Summer provides an excellent opportunity for everyone to get outside, increase their activity, and avoid a year-round sedentary lifestyle. But staying healthy during the summer requires more than just activities and exercise. Follow these tips for summer health and enjoy this most favored time of year.
Nutrition: A well-balanced diet is key to looking and feeling your best any time of year. Summer gives us unique access to fresh produce, much of which is grown in our very own gardens! What constitutes a proper diet is vast and conflicting but when it comes to nutrition one thing is true variety is the spice of life. Eat a variety of food including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat protein, while keeping the consumption of refined sugars and processed foods to a minimum, to ensure your highest energy levels.
Water: One easy way to instantly improve your health is to drink more water. This is especially important during the summer months when we are more active, often outside in the season’s heat. How much water is the right amount? A good rule of thumb is to take your weight, in pounds, divided by 2 (i.e.: A person weighing 150 pounds needs to drink 75 ounces of water per day.). High levels of physical activity, medications, and drinks high in caffeine may increase your need for water even more. Remember, infants and toddlers can become dehydrated much more easily than adults. Be sure they get lots of liquids too.
Take Cover: Nothing takes the wind out of your summer sails like a sunburn. Sunburns are painful and unhealthy. You’ve heard it all before but it’s worth repeating...use a good sunscreen and re-apply it frequently during the day. Also, when enjoying outdoor activities wear a hat to keep cool and shaded. And don't forget your sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun's UV rays.
Play it Safe: Be it golf, tennis, swimming, or chores like yard work don’t be tempted to risk your good health with lax and unsafe practices. Use common sense and follow the rules. Wear proper clothing and shoes, use the right equipment for the job and follow safety rules to the letter. Don’t be tempted to push beyond your physical limits. Take regular breaks in a cool place.
Proper Nervous System Function: Health routines are often overlooked when busy summer schedules kick in. Although key to health all year round, a properly functioning nervous system during the summer months can ensure you enjoy your favorite time of year to the fullest! Allergy sufferers may benefit from regular chiropractic adjustments as will athletes as they strive for ultimate performance in their sport and protect themselves from injury. And, with the ever-increasing threat of Lyme’s Disease and West Nile Virus, a boost in immunity is always welcome.
When was the last time you had your nervous system checked? Regular chiropractic care is essential to ensuring proper nerve system function and your family’s overall health and vitality.