by Dr. Marita Schauch, ND, Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre –
Summer is upon us, and whether you love the hot season or you don’t, the heat is coming either way.
Whether you’re doing the status quo all summer, or getting out and creating summer magic, here are my top tips to survive and thrive this summer!
Hydrate
Not only is our risk for dehydration greater in the hot weather, keeping hydrated during hot summer days greatly benefits our energy levels, mood and mental clarity. A helpful tip is to add a little salt to your water or juice for added electrolytes. Remember to limit sodas and alcoholic beverages as they actually dehydrate rather than hydrate.
Mineral Based Sunscreens
While we want to be sun smart, let’s not forget that sunlight exposure is also an essential part of our physical, mental and emotional health with its support in Vitamin D production. Vitamin D is essential in maintaining healthy bones, muscles, teeth, supporting our immune system and plays a vital role in mood regulation.
Many natural sunscreens use the minerals Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide as the active ingredient. You can find natural sunscreens at many health food stores, or you can make your own at home using some simple ingredients. However, keep in mind that they aren’t invincible, and you will still need to take other sun protection measures (hat or cover up), and remember to reapply frequently and after swimming.
Limit and plan your time in the sun wisely. The UV rays of the sun are much stronger between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., so try to enjoy the sun in the early mornings or late afternoons to receive the benefits with less risk. And as always, bring along an umbrella and a coverup to the beach.
Eat Regular Meals
Keeping your blood sugar levels stable makes it easier to resist overindulgence when your blood sugar is low or in a crash. It’s easy to go overboard at the summer cookout, or snacks on road trips, trips to the ice cream parlor, and all the many yummy opportunities summer brings. I’m all for indulging and having a good time – just make sure you’re feeding your body good nutritious food regularly too!
Keep the Bugs Away … Naturally
Nothing can ruin a summer night more than a swarm of bugs! Some bugs may also pose a potential threat to our health as they may be carriers of other diseases such as lyme disease. So what can we do when most common bug sprays contain harmful pesticides and toxins? Since bugs have a keen sense of smell, what may seem like a natural and fresh scent to us actually repels them! Many natural oils are used by natural brands to ward off the creepy crawlies, and are actually quite refreshing. Look for bug sprays with ingredients such as tea tree, eucalyptus, citronella, peppermint or rosemary oils.
Happy Summer!
