Summer is finally here and we couldn’t have been more ready for it. With many of us coming out of a more sedentary spring season than we are used to, ensuring we focus on our health is definitely of heightened importance. There are many ways to start feeling healthier and more energetic now that the sun is out and the weather is nice; by cleaning and dusting our homes, changing out bedsheets, opening windows and enjoying fresh air, we are already well on our way to feeling more fresh each and every day. However, now that the weather has already been reaching higher than expected temperatures, we should likely be preparing for a string of more heat-advisories within the next few months. With this in mind, it is important to  be mindful of our health by staying active and eating well; Ensuring proper hydration, exercise, and healthy eating habits, feeling great this summer will be a no-brainer. Here are some easy ways to ensure your summer health is on point this season.  

 

Drink Water.

Proper hydration at any point in the year is essential for our overall health and wellbeing. Water consumption optimizes blood pressure, is important for digestion, helps with weight control, and helps to move waste out of the body. In the summer you begin to lose the water from your body more rapidly, making it essential to drink more and replenish what has been lost. If we fail to consume enough water on a hot and sunny day, we put ourselves at risk for dehydration which can be accompanied by serious medical complications. 

 

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine. 

While we all enjoy a nice drink on the patio with friends and family on occasion, drinking too much alcohol or caffeine can increase your chances of becoming dehydrated. Alcohol is a diuretic, which removes fluid from your blood at a higher rate than other liquids. Caffeine is also known to have similar effects. 

 

Protection From The Sun

The benefits of sunscreen are definitely in abundance; they protect you from the harmful UV rays of the sun, reduce your risk of skin cancer, and prevent premature aging of the skin. Sunglasses also work to protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays, and are recommended for wear when out in the sun for optimal eye health. 

 

Stay Active

No matter the season at hand, physical activity is recommended to promote good body health. Explore the city, enjoy a walk or run throughout your neighbourhood, or do at-home exercise in your own backyard. Staying active will not only improve your physical health, it also has a great effect on a person's mental wellbeing.

 

Eat Well 

Staying cool during the summer can be difficult on those scorching hot days, but did you know that different types of food can help you to stay cool and hydrated? Just once cup of cucumbers can account for 8 ounces of water intake, which is certain to help fight off dehrydation! Many other fruits, vegetables and foods can also aid in this battle, such as watermelon, celery, and yogurt. In addition, eating heavier meals and cooking hot meals during cooler times of the day can be more appealing and allow you to stay cooler and more comfortable throughout the day.