To every health regimen, there is a season.
As pharmacists, we see each season bring a new host of ailments and treatments.
From Winter coughs and colds, to Summer sprains and sunburns, each season presents its own unique set of perils, but also its own unique opportunities for getting healthy and staying healthy!
With warm July sunshine upon us in the Okanagan, here are some quick tips to help you stay healthy over this Summer season.
First off, why not add a berry boost to your diet!
Berries are terrific antioxidents and in Summer, berries are plentiful. Why not pick up some blueberries or blackberries on your way home from work today.
Oh, and did we mention berries are high in fiber, which helps lower cholesterol?
Summer’s also a great time to take advantage of stress reducing pastimes like gardening! If you don’t have a big yard, even potting a few plants gets the hands dirty and helps you feel ‘grounded’. Being mentally grounded can help relieve physical and mental stress!
And of course, nothing beats Summer for presenting a myriad of exercising options.
From a simple swim in the lake at Gellatly Beach or a walk along the waterfront, to com,petitive sports for every age and energy level, Summer is a great time to get that aerobic activity you need to keep your heart strong and eliminate lactic acid build up. Even if you’re tied to the office all day, take lunch to the park and enjoy a ten minute stroll for dessert!
While most of us love Summer, we have to also remember that the sunshine that symbolizes so much of what we love about the Summer months can be damaging to our bodies if we don’t protect ourselves appropriately.
Always wear sunglasses when out in the sun. A good pair of sunglasses will block out at least 99% of damaging ultraviolet A and B rays. Also remember to wear protective glasses while mowing the lawn and working with other power tools and trimmers outdoors.
Sunscreen is a must for anyone spending any time under the sun. A quick spread of sunscreen can help keep our skin healthy and prevent things like skin cancer. Remember that many sunscreens will come off in water, so if you’ve been out for a swim, re-apply some sun protection when you get back on dry land!
Finally, despite the temptation to stay up late and squeeze the most out of those long Summer days, be sure to keep a watchful eye on your sleep. A good night’s sleep is one of the most important keys to maintaining your good health!
So get out there, make the most of the sunshine and stay healthy this Summer!