Summer presents an opportunity to experience warm weather. The good thing is that it comes after we have had enough of staying indoors due to extreme cold and freezing that’s caused by winter. On the other hand, it’s during summer time that most people tend to lower their guard and overindulge in things that put their health at risk. Grilled meat, beer and staying outdoors for too long become the order of the day. And since things don’t get out of hand in an overnight, most people don’t realize the harm they are doing to themselves until it’s too late. Here are some tips that can help you maintain good health this summer and avoid the regrets that come later.
1. Protect your Eyes
There is obviously too much heat during summer. While a bit of sunshine is good for your health, basking in the sun can damage your eyes in the long run. Eventually, you will have a blurred vision or cataracts. Such problems can be avoided by wearing sunglasses when heading out. The glasses create a barrier that prevents ultraviolet rays of the sun from reaching your eyes. When shopping for sunglasses opt for the ones with the lightest frame so that you don’t feel tired after wearing them for an hour or so.
2. Protect your Skin
Too much exposure to sun shine can trigger certain conditions such as sunburns and skin rashes. For the sake of being on the safe side, you should apply a layer of sunscreen lotion over your skin when going outside. The sunscreen will protect your skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays that are generated by the sun. Besides that, you should wear a breathable cap or hat when walking in the sun. Keep in mind that walking for a long time when the sun is too hot can trigger a headache.
3. Avoid Junk Food
This one goes without saying. Eating junk food will cause you to gain excess weight. Some of the foods that fall into this category include processed foods, too much starch (carbs such as wheat and rice) and red meat. By the rule of thumb, a larger percentage of your food portion should contain proteins, fruits and vegetables. You should also eat small portions of food rather than filling your plate to the maximum.
4. Exercise Regularly
There are people that use the scorching sun as an excuse not to exercise. Regardless of the weather, you should ensure you exercise every day for at least 30 minutes. Working out on a daily basis helps in preventing the accumulation of excess fats in your body. This is because exercising increases body metabolism which in return causes the stored fats to be burned to generate the energy that’s needed for those processes. You can opt to go to the gym, go for a walk, hike, swim or cycle. In case you experience pain in the muscles or joints, you should consider trying some of the solutions that are offered by Good Samaritan Health Solutions.
5. Drink Lots of Water
Water is essential to your body. And for the sake of setting the record straight, a larger percentage of your body comprises water than any other substance. Besides that, all metabolic processes require water. On the other hand, the scorching sun causes you to sweat a lot, which in return leaves you dehydrated and weak. You can counter this by drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day. In fact, you should carry bottled water with you when going out at all times so that you can quench your thirst.
6. Groom Yourself
Like stated earlier, the hot sun will cause you to sweat a lot even when you are not engaging in vigorous activity. It’s therefore, very important that you shower at least twice per day. In fact, getting rid of the sticky sweat will help you feel relaxed, especially when you want to get some sleep. You should also clean and trim your hair and beard. The same case to your armpits and privates. This is because your hair can smell awful due to the sweat that’s trapped inside.
7. Get Enough Sleep
It’s easy to get carried away by the outdoor activities and forget to rest. Sleeping is actually important to your general wellness. This is because it allows the body to re-energize so that you can be more productive the next day. It also improves your memory and concentration levels. You should sleep for about 7 hours per day. For best results, practice going to bed at the same time no matter how much stuff you have on your plate. You should also turn on the AC so that it can keep room temperature in check.
8. Find a New Hobby
Instead of spending your free time watching TV or movies, you should find a new hobby that will keep you preoccupied. Being busy will help you cope with stressful situations and also burn calories. Some of the new hobbies that you can start include gardening, cycling and artwork such as painting and photography.
9. Limit Consumption of Coffee and Alcohol
Although consuming tea and coffee improves your level of alertness, the caffeine in these beverages usually have a dehydrating effect. Alcohol is also in the same league. You should therefore indulge in the alternatives that are sugar and caffeine free. Some of the drinks that you can indulge in include protein shakes and smoothies.
10. Weigh yourself Regularly
Your weight can never lie. In fact, standing on the weighing scale once in a while can tell you whether you are on the right or wrong track. If you notice that you have gained extra pounds, you should revisit what you eat because that’s where the problem lies. In case you are on the losing streak, you should maintain the balance to avoid a relapse.
