Five Tips to Stay Healthy in the Summer Heat

If you’re going to be out in the sun this summer, follow these five tips to make sure you stay healthy while having fun!

Fitness

General Health

July 22, 2016 | HF Healthy Living Team

The longer days and warmer temperatures of summer can mean more time spent outside with friends and family. Be sure to stay safe in the heat!

Click the photos below to learn more.

Drink Water

The summer heat may make you sweat more than you might on a cool day—which means your body is at risk of dehydration, or losing water. That’s why it’s so important to drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages in the summer. Add fruit to your water for natural sweetness!

Protect Yourself from the Sun

No matter your ethnicity or background, it’s always a good idea to protect your skin from the sun’s most harmful rays: wear a hat to cover your face and ears, sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection, and a water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protective factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

Time It Right

Try to avoid being out in the heat between noon and 3pm, when the sun is strongest and the temperature hottest. If you must be outdoors during this time, try to avoid physical activity, be sure to drink plenty of water, and find shade when you can.

Watch What You Wear

Light-colored and loose-fitting clothes can help you stay cool even on the hottest days. Be sure to choose clothes made from “breathable” fabrics—cotton, linen, or other moisture-wicking material—so you can stay comfortable.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body feels. Do you have a dry, sticky mouth? A headache or muscle cramps? Is your urine dark? If you have any of these symptoms, you may be dehydrated. Drink water right away, find shade to cool down, and see your doctor.

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Healthfirst is the brand name used for products and services provided by one or more of the Healthfirst group of affiliated companies. This health information or program is for educational purposes only and not intended to treat, diagnose, or act as a substitute for medical advice from your provider. Consult your healthcare provider and always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Sources
“Stay Safe and Healthy This Summer,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed April 28, 2016.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/subtopic/matte/pdf/CDCSummerSafety.pdf

“Summer Tips for a Healthy Heart,” The American Heart Association. Updated June 25, 2015.
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/HealthyKids/HowtoMakeaHealthyHome/Summer-Tips-for-a-Healthy-Heart_UCM_303868_Article.jsp#.VyIyGD-BJaJ

“Staying Active in Warm Weather,” The American Heart Association. Updated June 25, 2015.
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/PhysicalActivity/FitnessBasics/Staying-Active-in-Warm-Weather_UCM_475175_Article.jsp#.VyE0uj-s7mA

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