Beat the Heat! 9 Ways to Stay Happy & Healthy this Summer
It’s the middle of the summer and your in between plans to go to the beach, head to your favorite restaurant with some friends, or just chill out pool side. But all of that fun in the sun can leave you feeling a little burnt out. Here’s how to stay healthy and beat the heat this summer!
Sunblock is your friend!
If you love sitting in the sun to tan or just hanging out outside with friends, you must know that overexposure to the sun can happen quicker than you think! According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the best sun screen is an SPF 30 or higher and is water-resistance. You’ll see sunscreens that say broad-spectrum, which means it covers both types of harmful UV rays – UVA and UVB. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours!
If you’re like many and think being in the water will help out with your sun exposure, think again! It turns out that the sun radiates towards you from above and actually reflects off the water, bouncing right back at your at about 70% of its original intensity.
Drink Water and Then Drink Some More
Don’t turn to sugary drinks while sitting in the hot summer sun. The CDC reports that sugary drinks can cause you to lose more body fluid and super-cold drinks can actually cause stomach cramps. Stick to water to rehydrate your body.
Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses are not just meant for style! Optometrists report that sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays and glare, which can cause a variety of eye issues. Think about your eyes the same way you think about your skin before heading outside – protect them!
Avoid Alcohol
Not only does the sun and high temperatures leave you open to a risk of dehydration, sunstroke and heatstroke, but your risk is even higher when you are physically active or when alcohol is consumed. Stick to water to hydrate your body – not alcohol.
How to Combat Sun and Heatstroke
If you suddenly feel nauseous, dizzy, or have a headache, you may be having mild-symptoms of a heat-related illness. If you experience these symptoms, you should take a break right away. Drink water, head for share, and apply a cold washcloth or ice pack to the back of your neck.
Armed with all of this knowledge, you are ready to head outside and enjoy the rest of the summer!
