Lifestyle Tips for Summertime

Whilst Summer is in full swing, it’s common to enjoy the warmer weather by partaking in outdoor activities and enjoying the sun. However, various health issues can be caused by the heat, so whether it’s feeling dehydrated or spending too much time in the sun, it’s important to prepare for the warmer weather to keep our health in the best shape. Here are five tips to stay healthy this summer.

1. Stay Hydrated

Your body becomes dehydrated when your water intake does not equal your output. Fluid losses are accentuated in warmer climates, during strenuous exercise, in high altitudes, and in older adults, whose sense of thirst may not be as sharp. It is critical that when you are doing any strenuous activities, that you drink more than the recommended 8 glasses of water.

2. Exercise

Summer months are the perfect time for utilising the outdoors as your own gym! Hiking, swimming, surfing, and even using jungle gyms are all great options to stay active during these warmer months. Summertime is a great way to get creative with your workouts!

3. Vitamin D

Summer is the best time to get Vitamin D because you can get it directly from the sun, without needing to take supplements. Our skin makes Vitamin D when it is exposed to direct sunlight, 15-20 minutes a day during the strongest rays will typically provide individuals with their daily dose. Vitamin D has also been shown to promote healthy bones and teeth, fight depression and help brain development in pregnancy and infancy. To determine your Vitamin D levels, a blood test can be taken at your local GP Surgery.

4. Eat Local Produce

Fresh and local produce is full of the highest value of nutrients and vitamins. Local produce is also low in calories and keeps you feeling full for a longer time. Dark coloured vegetables also contain compounds and decrease inflammation caused by sunburn. You can make this a summertime occasion by going to your local Farmer’s Market every week!

5. Use Essential Oils

Essential oils are a wonderful way to create safe, healthy, and natural products to use on the skin. Many essential oils are great at repelling mosquitos, bees, biting flies and can treat stings and bites if they occur. The most common essential oils are eucalyptus, citronella, lemongrass, tea tree, geranium, clove, lavender, thyme, rosemary, and peppermint. Oils can also be mixed with water, alcohol, or witch hazel, to make a diluted spray. Whilst essential oils will not prevent sunburn, they can be used after sun exposure to soothe and lessen the severity of a burn.