Top Tips for Looking After Your Health in Summer
Top Tips for Looking After Your Health in Summer
Summer is almost here, which means that it’s time to slap on the suncream, fire up the BBQ and get ready to enjoy the warmer weather. Just as we expect coughs, colds, and flu during the winter months, summer brings with it its own set of health ailments to prepare for.
From hayfever and sunburn to healthy eating and hydration, there are many things to take into consideration during the summer months for your health to ensure that you feel and look great. No matter if you’re jetting off to sunnier climes or having a staycation, let’s take a look at some tips for looking after your health this summer.
Wear Sun Protection
When the sun is shining, it can be all too easy to get sidetracked by fun plans, but it’s so important to ensure that your skin is protected from harmful UV rays. Aim to use an SPF of at least 30 to ensure that your skin is protected against sun damage and be sure to apply suncream even on overcast days. Avoid sitting in the sun during peak hours, so between 10 am and 4 pm, in order to avoid direct UV exposure. Contrary to popular belief, wearing suncream doesn’t prevent you from catching a tan, but it does protect you from skin damage, premature skin ageing and reduces your risk of skin cancer.
Stay Hydrated
During those warm summer days, sweat and heat can leave your body feeling fatigued and dehydrated. It’s important to protect your body from the effects of dehydration and ensure that you are drinking enough water throughout the day, alongside other liquids such as tea, coffee, and juice.
Signs of dehydration include extreme feelings of thirst, tiredness, dizzy spells, headaches and dry skin. Aim to drink around 8 glasses of water per day and to add a natural fresh summer flavour to your water, consider adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or strawberries. If you’re heading out, be sure to take a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated on the go, and, if you drink alcoholic drinks, be sure to counter this with plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Eat Healthy Foods
There are so many fresh foods that come into season during the summer months, meaning that they are their best and most delicious, so why not make the most of them and ensure you are eating plenty of fresh, healthy foods over the summer months. Lush green salads, sweet fresh fruits and zesty citrus fruits are all extra tasty over the summer months and are packed full of goodness to help support a healthy diet. You may also want to further support your diet with probiotics and supplements to ensure you are getting your recommended intake of vitamins and minerals.
Tackle Hay Fever
Hayfever is one of the most common allergic reactions and, in the UK, over 10 million people suffer from it each and every year. You can get hayfever at any age, but it typically begins in childhood for most sufferers. Summer can be an unbearable time for hayfever sufferers, so taking steps to combat the effects can make all the difference.
If you are heading out, wearing sunglasses can help minimise the amount of pollen that gets into your eyes, and adding a little bit of vaseline to the inside of your nose helps in the same way. Once you get home, be sure to take a shower and change your clothes to again minimise how much pollen you’re coming into contact with. Stock up on antihistamines and be sure to take them daily so that you keep symptoms under control.
