Top 10 best summer health tips
Summer signifies longer days, more sunshine, and opportunities for plenty of outdoor activities. But heat and humidity can be hard on our bodies. It’s important to incorporate certain health practices into our lifestyle to stay healthy and energized in the summer months. Here are the Top 10 best summer time health tips to stay healthy all summer long.
1. Stay Hydrated
It is important to stay hydrated this summer! High temperatures increase our risk of dehydration, therefore drinking 8–10 glasses of water daily is recommended. Eating hydrating foods is also a great way to stay hydrated! Watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges are great options. Additionally, foods like coconut water and herbal teas help replace lost electrolytes and keep you cool.
2. Adopt a Healthy Diet
fruit and vegetables not only adds taste but also delivers necessary nutrients to keep you going throughout the hot summer months. Light meals, like salads that include lean protein or grilled vegetables, will help your body digest more efficiently and avoid the sluggish feeling that heavier food can cause. Drinking fluids through water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelons supplements your liquid intake, keeping you refreshed and healthy during the summer.
3. Protect Your Skin
During summer the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are the most harmful, and increase the risk of skin damage. Always use a broad-spectrum sun screen with an SPF of at least 30, on cloudy days too. Apply every 2 hours, every time after swimming, or sweating. The use of protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses can also help. These methods can help protect your skin from harmful rays.
4. Enjoy your Summer Drink
Refreshing summer drinks are a big part of summer. They allow for hydration and cooling. Choose drinks like homemade lemonade, iced herbal teas, and fruit infused water. These drinks keep you hydrated. They have extra vitamins and important minerals as well. Stay away from sugary sodas and alcohol; each can lead to dehydration.
5. Stay Physically Active
It is important to stay physically active regardless of the weather. If you live in an area where the heat may be overwhelming, do your best to stay motivated to move. When it is warm, workout in the early morning or early evening when it tends to be cooler outside. Swimming, yoga, walking, or brisk walking are activities you can stay fit without overheating. Always pay attention to what your body is telling you, and if needed, take a break if you are feeling dizzy or fatigued.
6. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is important for health and wellness. The longer days may keep you from getting quality sleep. It is important to stick to a consistent sleep routine. Keep your bedroom cool and dark. Do not consume caffeine or eat a heavy meal before bed. Try to get 7–9 hours of sleep each night to allow your body time to recover and reset.
7. Practice Food Safety
Bacteria grow quickly at higher temperatures and speeding up spoilage could result in foodborne illnesses. If eating outdoors, keep your perishables cooled, and don't let food sit at room temperature for prolonged periods. Produce should be washed and closely question all of the cooking temperatures for meats. Food safety is an important consideration in avoiding foodborne illness.
8. Dress for the Weather
Wearing the right clothing is one way to help your body regulate or maintain your temperature. When it is hot, wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. Choose fabrics that are airy or "breathe," such as cotton or linen. Light-colored clothing helps to reflect sunlight, which helps to keep you cooler. If you are outside in the summer heat, always wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV protective sunglasses.
9. Be Aware of the Air Quality
Hotter temperatures in the summer can also mean elevated levels of air pollution or even different types of allergens. If you're someone who has a respiratory condition, you should be mindful of the air quality index (AQI) in your area, and when the AQI is rated poorly, limit your physical outdoor activity, and keep your windows closed; you can also use air purifiers when you're indoors to clean the air.