Summer is upon us, which means longer, sunny days and warmer weather. This hot season promises lots of fun and relaxation. It also comes with challenges.

Follow these health tips to stay safe and have a memorable, healthy summer.

Be Active

Spend time with your loved ones outside doing activities that help you stay fit. Ride a bike, throw a Frisbee, or walk around your favorite park. Exercise early in the morning or later at night when it’s cooler outside.

Eat Right

Ice cream, hot dogs, and sugary cold drinks may all seem tempting when it’s hot. However, these summer foods are not the healthiest options.

Enjoy sweets and junk foods in moderation. Do not drink sugary drinks. Stick to eating healthy foods like fruits and veggies that give you lots of energy.

Stay Safe in the Sun

Adults over the age of 65 are more prone to heat-related health problems. This is especially true during the summer.

Signs of heat problems include:

• Heavy sweating.
• Dizziness.
• Lightheadedness.
• High body temperature.
• Confusion.
• Loss of consciousness.

Seek shade if you’re going to be outside for long periods. Wear loose, lightweight clothing. Also, don’t forget to wear sunscreen to reduce your risk for skin cancer.

Get Lots of Rest

Rest and relaxation are important during the summer. Rest and sleep give your body a chance to heal and refresh.

Take a nap if you feel really tired after being outside. When you’re outside, take frequent breaks to relax in the shade and put up your feet.

Stay Hydrated

Water can replenish fluids you lose when you sweat. It can also help regulate your body temperature and lubricate your joints.

Drink lots of water during the summer, especially if you’re outside. Avoid coffee, alcohol, and sugary drinks like sodas and fruit juices. These can all increase your risk for dehydration.

Enjoy Summer Fruits and Vegetables

Watermelon and corn are some of the many fruits and veggies that grow freely during the summer. Produce is less costly when you buy it when it’s in season. It is also far more nutritious.

Take advantage of eating summer fruits and veggies, including:

• Tomatoes.
• Cucumbers.
• Zucchini.
• Summer squash.
• Figs.
• Berries.
• Plums.
• Nectarines.
• Cherries.
• Radishes.
• Beetroot.
• Mangoes.
• Avocados.
• Watermelon.
• Corn on the cob.

Stay Cool

Be prepared to stay cool at all times during the summer, even if you are indoors. Many aging adults have difficulty adjusting to sudden temperature changes. Some medications and diseases can affect your body temperature.

These summer tips can help you stay cool all season long:

• Drink water all day long.
• Take quick showers to cool down.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes in lightweight fabrics.
• Avoid using the oven to cook meals.
• Have your air conditioner serviced to make sure it works properly.
• Rest often.
• Wear sunscreen.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• Spend time in the shade.

Talk to your doctor if you have any other concerns about spending time in the sun this summer. Your doctor can provide other healthy summer tips that can help you stay safe.

Have fun in the sun while keeping these tips in mind! Jai Medical Systems is devoted to helping you enjoy a healthy summer. Contact us today at 1-888-524-1999 to learn more about our benefits and services. 

Posted June 22, 2023 by WP-Admin & filed under blog.