A Few Tips for Summer
a ritual to check for scratches, sores, and blisters. Anything out of the ordinary will require treatment immediately - even if you're out of town!
Cooling your body is tough in hot weather. High humidity means the sweat that normally cools you through evaporation stays on your skin. If you're working hard physically, your muscles are demanding an increased blood supply, while your skin is also asking your heart to send more blood its way to help in cooling. Because of this, it is important to avoid hyperthermia, a condition in which the body temperature rises sharply. Hyperthermia can trigger heat cramps, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke.
If you like to exercise or work outside during the summer, take it easy, especially at first. Give your body time to adjust to the heat. Seek out shade if you can, and avoid intense activity between the hours of 10 am and 3 p.m.. This is when the sun is at its highest and hottest. (You're also more likely to get a sunburn during these hours.) Wear clothing made from loosely woven fabrics that breathe. Stick to a loose fit and lighter colors.
Don't get dehydrated! It is easy to do during this season. The best way to stay hydrated is by drinking plenty of clean, safe water - even if you don't feel thirsty. Your thirst mechanism can underestimate your fluid loss, especially if you're being physically active (exercise, yard work). Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol, as they will actually dehydrate you, in addition to being bad for your body in many other ways. Sports drinks may be a good choice for replacing electrolytes and controlling blood glucose levels, but check with your healthcare provider first to make sure they are appropriate for you.
Summertime eating- Barbecues, reunions, picnics. Summertime festivities can offer as many fattening treats as winter holidays. Think about fried chicken, hot dogs, and potato salad - not to mention ice cream! Summer food can wreck havoc on both weight and glucose levels. But it doesn't have to. Summer is also a season when the freshest vegetables and fruits are available, and when high temperatures tempt us to eat light, refreshing meals.
Although many seasonal foods are packed with fat and calories, many are safer in moderation. Others can be altered or substituted for so that you lose nothing in the bargain.
Think baking, oven roasting, and grilling before you think frying. Remember that there's more you can throw on a barbecue than just a burger. Try lean cuts of beef chicken
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