How To Take Advantage Of Summer To Start Some Healthy Habits!
Summer in Western New York is a special time—especially after a long, hard winter! Most of us enjoy the longer days, the sun and the heat. This summer, why not get more out of this time of year by integrating some healthy habits into your daily routine? Here are a few ideas that can help you get started:
- Buy Local Produce: Between farmers’ markets, roadside stands and supermarkets that buy from nearby suppliers, it’s easy to find locally grown fresh produce. Buying locally means your produce is fresher and retains more nutrients—and it’s better for the environment, too! Visit a market near you to shop for a week’s worth of salad ingredients, fruits for a healthy dessert, or a side vegetable for your next weekend barbeque. When fruits are in season, stock up and freeze some for use in the winter.
- Get Moving: Make the most of the warmer temperatures and longer days by swimming laps at a community pool, planning a hike to explore a local park, or riding your bike instead of driving to run small errands. Or get a running/walking buddy to keep you company while you work toward a goal.
- Protect your skin. Yes, sunlight is a major source of Vitamin D, and we enjoy full doses of it when we can. But you need to take precautions and protect your skin. Always wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 and reapply it regularly. If you’re going to be outside for hours at a time, wear a hat and other protective clothing. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Drink lots of water. Many people find it easier to drink enough water in the summer, when you’re more aware of having to keep hydrated. Water is more refreshing than sugary juices or carbonated beverages, while unsweetened iced tea is a good substitute for those who don’t enjoy plain water all the time. Keep an insulated bottle of water or tea with you at all times!
At Chouchani, Sayegh and Bagnarello, we believe a healthy community is a strong community, so we encourage our patients and their families to live healthier lifestyles. Want to know more about our OB-GYN practice located in Western New York? Call us anytime.
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