Healthy Summer Tips

Summer is a great time to build up your fitness program, enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, take a vacation, and have fun. There are so many delicious fresh food options available during the summer. Start by exploring your market for summer fruits and veggies. It’s also a time to pay attention to your health and safety. Below are tips to help you stay safe and healthy this summer and all year long.

In the warmer, longer, lazier days of summer, even adults tend to adopt a "school's out!" attitude in summer. That's why this is a perfect time to improve your health in a fashion so seasonally laid back you'll barely notice the effort.

First off: Get Outside to Exercise!

Pick one outdoor activity -- going on a hike, taking a nature walk, playing games such as tag with your kids, cycling, roller blading, or swimming -- to shed that cooped-up feeling of gym workouts. The summer is also great time to play outdoor games, garden, or walk. Start a new routine that combines fun and physical activity. Active people are less likely than inactive people to be obese or to have high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, coronary artery disease and stroke, depression, colon cancer, and premature death. It's recommended that adults should get 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most, preferably all, days of the week.

Children and adolescents should participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most, preferably all, days of the week. Start at an easy pace and increase time and distance gradually.

Don't overdo it. And remember, the family that plays together not only gets fit together -- it's also a great way to create bonding time.

Next: Sleep Well

Resist the urge to stay up later during long summer days. Instead pay attention to good sleep routine by keeping the same bedtime and wake-up schedule and not drinking caffeine within three hours of bedtime. It's also a good idea to avoid naps during the day unless you take them every day at the same time, for the same amount of time.

Third: Practice sun safety by keeping yourself hydrated with plenty of water during all your outdoor activities and always use sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin from the sun.

Lastly, enjoy the summer. Whether it's vacationing or spending time with family, make the most of the longer days of summer to enjoy yourself and have fun!