Summer is here, and it’s a great time to be outside and enjoy time with family and friends. Have a safe, healthy summer with these simple tips!
1. Watch the sun. When we think of summer, we think of sunny days spent outside. Make sure you take proper precautions to protect your skin against burns and long-term damage such as skin cancer. Apply sunscreen and lip balm with SPF of 30 or higher. Discard if the expiration date has passed. Limit sun exposure from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM when the sun is its strongest! Wear loose fitting, light colored clothing and a hat with a brim, and always wear sunglasses with a high UV rating (50 or higher.)
2. Eat fresh. One of the best things about summer is access to fresh and health fruits and vegetables. Better yet: many of summer’s fruits and vegetables are brimming with health benefits. Use this time to focus on eating your colors — Fresh corn has natural antioxidants and benefits for your eyes, tomatoes contain lycopene and may protect your skin from sunburn, watermelon keeps you hydrated, and raspberries are a great source of fiber—some of it soluble in the form of pectin, which helps lower cholesterol.
3. Stay Cool. Heat-related illness is serious. But that doesn’t mean you need to stay indoors all day. Drink lots of water, wear loose fitting clothing and exercise in the early morning or evening to keep your body temperature in check. Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and find a cool place to lie down if you don’t feel well.
4. Protect against bugs and poisonous plants. Gardening, camping, hiking and many other outdoor activities are great ways to enjoy exercise and nature. However, poisonous plants, such as Poison Ivy, Oak or Sumac, as well as ticks and other parasites, can put a damper on your outdoor adventures. Decrease your risk by using protective clothing, such as a long pants, long-sleeved shirt and vinyl gloves, as well as lotions, creams and sprays that protect against bugs and poisonous plants. Get to know what they look like so you can avoid them or take the necessary actions of you are in touch with them. CLICK HERE for more information from the CT Poison Control Center.
5. Stay In Shape. We’re often more conscious of what we eat in the summer since we’re more likely to squeeze into shorts, bathing suits and sleeveless tops. Summertime is a great time to start healthy habits that can last all year, such as cutting back on high-fat meats and mayo-drenched salads, adding healthy grains to your diet instead of chips and snacks, and drinking lots of water. It’s also a great time to take advantage of longer days and start an exercise plan. Talk to your doctor about what exercise program is right for you.
If you don’t yet have a physician, please contact Griffin Faculty Physicians at (203) 732-7325 and we would be happy to find you a primary care physicians that meets your needs.
We hope you enjoy your summer!