Summer is here, and with it comes fun, such as barbecues and swimming. As you gear up for the season, don’t forget to include these healthy tips.
1) Hydrate
You’ve probably heard that you need to drink eight glasses of water per day in order to be fully hydrated. That’s not really true. Oddly enough, it’s a statistic created with no medical basis, but we do know people need water – and lots of it. If it helps, you can aim for eight glasses, but really all you need to do is drink when you’re thirsty or hungry. People often forget, don’t listen to their bodies, sweat more during summer months, or drink caffeinated beverages, which can cause dehydration — and that’s where the trouble starts. Your skin, brain, digestive system, muscles, bones, and just about every part of you works best when you keep up the fluids. Keep a bottle of water with you at all times to sip throughout the day. If you’re not a fan of water by itself, try adding a slice of citrus fruit or drinking it chilled with ice.
2) Block Out the Sun
It may seem counter-intuitive to add more layers when it’s warm out, but your skin needs protection. Lightweight clothing and sunblock are important, even if you aren’t planning to spend much time outside. Wide-brimmed hats can help keep you cool and protect your face as well. You’ll also want to keep your eyes protected, as UV rays are known to cause cataracts. Throw on some sunglasses, too!
3) Stay Indoors if You’re Heat or Photo Sensitive
Children, the elderly, and pets can be particularly vulnerable to the heat. There are medical conditions and medications that may make you sensitive to heat or sun exposure. If you fit into one of these categories or care for someone who does, stay inside as much as possible. The hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. tend to be most grueling, so try to plan your activities around the hottest part of the day.
4) Bring Color to Your Dinner Plate
Some of the best produce found all year is available during summer months. This is a great time to stock up on berries and other colorful items from your local farmer’s market. Keep in mind that color is usually associated with different health benefits. For example, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables are generally known for having lots of Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Purple produce tends to be high in Vitamin C and Vitamin K. You can also gobble up lots of Vitamin K, Vitamin B, and Vitamin E when you go green. Check out “Eat a Colorful Variety Every Day” for fun ways to add variety to your plate.
5) Practice Water Safety
Watch kids around water, even if they aren’t planning to take a dip, and be sure to have life jackets on hand for the little ones. If you haven’t been certified in CPR lately, take a refresher class. Better yet, enroll the whole family, so everyone will be protected.
6) Exercise Cautiously
You shouldn’t give up fitness during the summer months, but it is a good idea to reschedule your outdoor activities for early morning or evening. You can also exercise indoors by enrolling in a gym or participating in wellness activities like Wii Fit or table tennis.
7) Travel with Care
If you’re leaving the country, you may require vaccinations to go to specific destinations. Vaccines may be required weeks or months before your trip, and the CDC recommends taking prescription medication with you to some places. During summer months, the risk of exposure to ticks and mosquitos goes up, too. Both carry diseases, so wear bug repellent, drain stagnant water, and avoid areas where pests are active.
Stay Well with Help from RefillWise
Our prescription discount cards can make purchasing prescriptions and medical equipment you may need to pack for your next vacation more affordable. Sign up for your free RefillWise prescription discount card or text JOIN to 22822 to start saving an average of 40% at the pharmacy today.
Back to blog home