5 Steps for a Health-Positive Summer
Swap the snacks. Swap the typical store-bought snacks and treat for more seasonal fruits of summer. Allow yourself to experience the variety of naturally sweet options such as fresh berries, watermelon, pineapple, mango, and more! Increase intake of nutrient-dense foods by embracing fresh produce such as eggplant, corn, avocado, green peas, zucchini, and squash. The number of meals, snacks, side dishes, and desserts that can be made with these foods is endless. Forget snacking on chips and store-bought cookies! Instead, sink your teeth into some savory foods from mother nature's summer crops.
Drink more water. Be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and prevent overheating. The best way to monitor your hydration is through the color of your urine. Dark yellow urine means you need more H2O, whereas pale yellow urine means your body is most likely adequately hydrated.
Keep cold food cold and warm food warm. There's nothing worse than getting food poisoning from a summer BBQ to ruin your vacation. We usually see a spike in food-borne illnesses with an increase in outdoor temperatures during the summer months. The warm temperature creates the perfect environment for bacteria that cause food poisoning. The most important thing you can do to combat this is to ensure that cold foods stay cold and warm foods stay warm.
Wear sunscreen. If enjoying the outdoors is part of your summer plans, then wearing sunscreen is essential. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF, and make sure to reapply often. Take the extra step, and wear a hat, sunglasses, and maybe even a rash guard for additional protection.
Keep moving. While sleeping in or skipping your afternoon workout because of social events is tempting, maintaining a regular exercise routine is important. Physical activity is not only essential for your physical health but is an instant mood booster and stress reducer. Enlist a workout partner to help keep you committed and accountable to ensure a healthy and strong summer!