Summer is just around the corner, a time to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends. There are many activities to enjoy in the warm weather such as swimming, cooking outdoors, walking, picnics, gardening and time at the beach. Sometimes the summer can bring high temperatures that can affect our health. There are ways we can prepare for the heat that will allow us to have a healthy and safe summer.

Nutrition is an important factor to how we feel physically and mentally. Eating the right foods and drinking plenty of water can prevent us from any complications caused from heated weather. Here are some nutritional tips to staying well:

Drink plenty of water. Try to drink 8, 8 oz. glasses of water daily to help our body stay hydrated during the humid dry weather.

Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are filled with vitamins and antioxidants that will keep our energy level up to prevent us from feeling fatigue because of the heat.

Stay away from highly saturated foods. Dining out, fast foods, or heavily oiled foods can cause us feeling tired and irritable. In addition to a well-balanced diet, it is important to consider protection from the sun. The sun gives off harmful ultraviolet rays that can damage our skin. Below is a list of ways to help protect us from sun damage:

Try to avoid outdoors when the UV rays are strongest. The UV rays are most harmful from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

**USE SUNCREEN** Sunscreen should be applied a half-hour before going outdoors to give time for it to set in. Also, sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours because water and perspiration will wash it off.

Wear sun protective clothing. SPF (sun protected factors) T-shirts, hats, sunglasses and swimwear are great additions to help reduce our chances of sunburn. Have a happy and healthy summer! Remember to choose your foods wisely and always use protection from the sun.

“Celebrate Summer- Sun drenched days and starlit nights…”

-- Gooseberry Patch