Healthy Summer Tips

Let’s enjoy the best time of the year with some healthy tips. Following some simple ideas will keep you happy and smiling throughout the sunny season.

Everyone loves a BBQ…. but did you know that the blackened/burnt surfaces are carcinogens and is linked to stomach cancer? Cook on foil or a pan on top of the grill. You may not get the grill marks but you’ll save your health by not eating blackened food. If you are served food that has burnt areas, cut them off and eat the edible parts.

Want a boost of skin protection? Eat lots of cooked tomatoes. The lycopene protects your skin from the sun similar to an internal sunscreen but still remember to also apply sunblock for ultimate protection. There has also been research that drinking coffee, grape juice, cherry juice and other dark fruit/veggie juices can help protect your skin from the inside out.

Love fruits and veggies? Buy seasonal produce and eat LOTS of it! In JUNE, the fruits and veggies in season are:

Corn
Lettuce
Watermelon
Strawberries
Cantaloupe
Cherries
Blueberries
Peaches
Apricots

In JULY, look for:

Cucumbers
Tomatoes
Summer squash
Corn
Green beans
Lettuce
Watermelon
Strawberries
Cantaloupe
Blueberries
Peaches
Apricots
Kiwi
Raspberries
Plums

Incorporate these fresh fruits and veggies organically if possible and get creative in using them in lots of light summer fare…..such as a refreshing fruit salad!

Get outside every chance you have. The sun and warmer weather is good for your mood. Plus the Vitamin D is beneficial for your body…..helps the immune system, supports bone health and may even ward off cancer. Bask for 15 minutes (without sunscreen) then remember to cover up or apply sunscreen during the peak hours of the day from 10:00 am to 3:00 PM.

Drink infused water……add cucumbers, lemons, oranges, berries, mint, basil, etc….these are rich in antioxidants and will add vitamins with a burst of flavor to plain purified water.

Go the extra mile and park farther away when out shopping or heading into work. Try walking around town to do some of your errands rather than driving to each destination. If they are of close proximity, reap the benefits of the extra exercise. With the warmer weather and sunny days, why not rack up some extra steps along the way. Buy or download a tracking device that will calculate your steps…..it’s a great motivator and goal setter.

Tune into nature and tune out of technology. Summer has one the most sensory experiences of all the seasons…..listen to the sounds of the many types of birds, insects and crickets (a personal favorite is the sound of the cicada), the sound of the ocean, even hearing a motorcycle can remind you of those warm summer afternoons and nights. Look at the beauty of summer….lush green trees, grassy fields, lightening bugs, sand castles, boats, swimming pools, beautiful flowers, kites, sunsets or a sunrise if you are an early bird. Become more aware of the beauty that surrounds you. There is a meditative calm when we feel connected to nature.

Keep your bedroom cool in the evening with cotton sheets and a lighter blanket. Air conditioning, fans or if there is a nice outdoor breeze to keep the air flowing will help make summer slumber more comfortable thus lowering our core temperature for a sound sleep.

For a cool tingling treat…..store a spray bottle of water in the refrigerator. On a hot, humid, sticky feeling day, mist your face, legs and arms…..it will feel invigorating and refreshing.

Create a scrapbook of photos and favorite moments during the summer. Savor and share what inspires and makes you happy. Whether it’s a place you went to, a simple photo of a flower that caught your attention or a healthy delicious recipe you created. What fun it will be to “re-live” those moments when looking back on your favorite summer memories.

Hope you will enjoy these summer tidbits and share them with family and friends. Even if you try just one tip, it’s sure to be helpful and enjoyable each time summer rolls around again. Remember that good health is not just about eating right, it’s also about the body, mind and spirit…..it’s all about equilibrium.

Here’s to your Happy Healthy Summer Best…….for Life!

Lisa Golebieski, MS, Holistic Nutrition Consultant, Certified Health Coach