Sunny days are here! We know you are itching to get out there and soak up that vitamin D. However, there are some things you should do to prepare for the summer sun to keep you and your family healthy.

Five Tips for Staying Healthy in the Sunshine

As you plan to head out to the coast, go camping, or enjoy a good hike, we want to be sure you stay healthy and protect yourself against common summertime health problems like sunburn, dehydration, and insect bites. Here are five tips to help you avoid the most common health issues most people experience during the summer:

  1. Stock up on mineral sunscreen.

There are two types of sunscreen – chemical sunscreens and mineral sunscreen. Chemical sunscreen contains hormone-disrupting chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Most mineral sunscreens are safer, containing gentler ingredients.

  1. Use a natural bug spray.

Botanicals can be used in bug spray to keep you bite-free effectively. Many DIY or natural sprays include cedar, citronella, clove, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, rosemary, tea tree oil, and/or mint. A combination of the above botanicals is likely to be most effective.

  1. Rock a sun hat.

Men’s fashion makes it easier for men to wear hats then women, but there are great looking sun hats for any gender. Protecting your head from the sun has the advantage of keeping your scalp, the tips of your ears, and any other unprotected skin from getting burned.

If you don’t want to wear a hat and you will be in direct sunlight for an extended period of time, be sure to sit underneath an awning or sun umbrella to keep your skin protected. Sunscreen wears off throughout the day, but physical barriers can remain effective all day long.

  1. Have fun with hydration.

There are a ton of ways to stay hydrated on hot days. You can stick to water or have some fun with it by:

  • Infusing water with fresh fruits
  • Eating hydrating fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, or oranges
  • Drinking iced herbal teas like hibiscus, rooibos, lemon verbena, or raspberry leaf
  • Enjoying homemade fresh fruit popsicles
  1. Remember to drink up – even if you’re in the water.

There are times that we don’t think about hydrating, like when we are in the pool or running after our kids. Those are important moments to take a quick break and get something to drink before jumping back into the fun.

Are you ready to get healthy this summer? Make an appointment here at Flow Natural Health Care. We are here to help you get your summer started off right!