Summer is in full swing. Although the 4th of July is behind us, it’s tough to avoid the allure of lazy summer days spent eating BBQ and hamburgers with all the fixings. Every season comes with its challenges in terms of health and wellness. Summer, however, is in the unique position of providing us with some of the best opportunities to be mindful and healthy.
Health is a constant priority. It demands us to be intentional about what we put into our bodies and what we do with our time. If you want to remain in tip-top shape this season and into the next, take these tips to heart.
5 Tips for Staying Healthy & Fit in the Summertime
1) Stay Hydrated
I know. We’ve all been told since we were kids to drink more water. But listen: it’s really important! Not only do our bodies need adequate hydration to function properly, but not drinking enough can cause us to consume more calories and feel generally tired and lethargic. Adequate hydration aids in weight management and boosts energy levels.
Plus, the summer heat can be hazardous, particularly during exercise. Drink more water so that your body can best regulate its temperature and keep from overheating.
Hydration doesn’t have to come from H2O alone, either. Enjoy water-rich fresh foods, like melons and citrus fruit. Freeze grapes, bananas, or melon for a cool, hydrating summertime snack.
2) Bring Healthy Options to the Party
Summer is known for backyard cookouts, church potlucks, picnics, and parties. It might be tempting to load up on hamburgers a potato salad, but know that your summer shindigs don’t have to be unhealthy. Grilling out? Make shishkabobs with chicken and summer vegetables. Grill salmon. Have veggie and turkey burgers. Bring a watermelon or a fruit salad. There are ways to cut out carcinogenic red meats without sacrificing the fun of grilling out.
3) Drink in Moderation
Before you crack open too many cold ones, remember to drink in moderation. Summer makes alcohol seem all that more fun and refreshing, whether it’s a cold beer on the back porch or a hard seltzer on the beach. Try to limit your intake. Alcohol is a diuretic — meaning it causes your body to remove fluids.
You can become dehydrated.
Not only that, but alcohol contains a deceptive amount of sugar and calories. Drinking in excess is bad for your liver and your waistline. If you opt to drink, pick lower-calorie options over sugar-rich mixed and frozen drinks.
4) Pre-Pack Trip Snacks
During a summer trip, it’s easy to throw any sense of health and nutrition out the window. Before you pick up the pork skins at the next truck stop, think about packing healthy snack options beforehand. The monotony of a long drive can lead us to snack out of boredom rather than genuine hunger.
Make sure you’re snacking on things that you won’t regret. Pack carrots and hummus, nut butter, turkey jerky, vegetable chips and popcorn, and fresh fruits and vegetables. This will help you avoid the chips and candy bars.
5) Get Outside
Here in the South, getting outside during the summer is easier said than done. The heat and humidity can be sweltering. I won’t pretend that getting out to exercise during the heat of July and August is fun. It’s a challenge to be sure.
With that said, we can’t spend all of our time cooped up indoors next to the A/C unit.
Get outside. Not only is the fresh air and sun (in moderation) good for your physical and mental health, but being outside means being active. If it’s hot where you are, plan to exercise in the cool mornings. Join a gym with a pool. Jump in the sprinklers with your kids. You can get outside and stay cool, even in the summertime.
What matters is that you get out there and get moving!
Summertime is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. We have access to great, fresh foods and bright, sunny weather. Don’t squander the opportunities of the season — take charge of your health and your life!
What are your best healthy habits for the summer? Share in the comments.