Healthy Living in Summer Posted On: 3/12/2014 10:27:50 AM

Make this summer healthiest with these tips: 

Always apply suncream - Always to use a suncream lotion of at least SPF 30 in order to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. For sensitive skin, a mineral-based sunscreen is best. Avoid going out (if possible) in the sun in peak hours between 10am and 4pm in order to minimize UV radiation. If you are planning to be out in the sun for a long period of time, reapply suncream every two to three hours.

Drink plenty of water - During the hot summer months, heat and sweat can leave your body dehydrated. It is important to keep yourself hydrated by drinking at least eight to nine glasses of water a day. You can add some low calorific flavoring to water such as a piece of fruit, or opt for healthy alternatives like green tea or coconut water.

Keep up the exercise regime – Always remember summer exercise doesn’t have to stop because of the rising temperatures. Instead of working out outside, change your exercise plan and take it indoors.

Get wet - Summer is the perfect time of year to get wet! Start by swimming. If swimming laps isn’t your choice, join a water aerobics class or create your own aerobic workout with jumping jacks, marching and jogging in water.

Be Good to Your Eyes - To protect your vision at work and at play, wear protective eyewear. When outdoors, wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of ultraviolet A and B rays. Sunglasses can help prevent cataracts, as well as wrinkles around the eyes.

Eat light, small, frequent meals - Start the morning with a sweet, juicy fruit at breakfast. Ripe summer fruits - peaches, plums, melons and pears, are exactly what your skin craves for in the hot season. Citrus fruits are also very cooling. Eat whole or extract their juice, store in the refrigerator and sip often throughout the day.

Include salads in your diet - Consuming leafy lettuce and summer greens, corn on cob and cucumbers, in salads are delicious ways to stay cool. These foods contain a significant amount of water and can actually thin the blood, which has a cooling effect.