The sun is bright, the weather is warm, it’s time to get out and experience the wonder of Mother Nature. However, you must safely enjoy the summer. Getting out in the sun is healthy, but there are some dangers. The sun boosts your vitamin D, but you still need to protect your skin. If you want to create a protective tan, it doesn’t mean sitting in the sun all day. Start slowly with the time ranging from five minutes and working all the way up to 20 minutes. After that, apply a sunscreen. For vitamin D absorption, getting those rays is quicker at midday, but that’s also the worst time to sun for your skin.
You can get too much of a good thing.
While you need sunlight to trigger the production of vitamin D, which is responsible for so many functions, with a deficiency linked to cancer, muscle weakness, depression and death, you can get too much of a good thing. There are dangers of spending too much time in the sun, especially without sun block. It can cause damage to the eyes, which could result in cataracts, skin damage that can cause aging, changes and even cancer and sunburn. Wearing a good sunblock is important, even more so if you haven’t had much sun exposure.
Drink plenty of water.
Staying hydrated in the summer is important. Severe signs of dehydration can include low blood pressure, increased heart rate, unconsciousness and delirium. Even mild dehydration causes dizziness, headache and sleepiness. Keep a bottle of water with you at all times. If you don’t like plain water make flavored infused water with fresh fruit, herbs or vegetables, such as cucumber water. Your skin will look great when you’re properly hydrated. It can cause you to look years younger.
If you’re going to exercise outside, acclimate yourself to the weather.
Don’t do your routine consistently in the air conditioned gym and then decide you suddenly are ready for running on the hottest day of the year. You’re only asking for problems. Start earlier in the year and get your body adjusted to working hard in warm weather. Cut your outside exercise time shorter and finish off the workout in air conditioning, gradually moving the entire workout outside as your body adjusts.
Don’t run alone or at night if you can avoid it. If you can’t, wear reflective clothing, especially if running at night on a street. Carry your phone with you and let family or friends know the path you take.
Dress for the weather. Wear clothing that is light in color and weight. It should have wicking properties to keep the sweat from your body and be breathable to aid in evaporation. Protect your eyes from the sun with sun glasses.
No matter how healthy your food is, if it stays out on the counter too long, it can make you sick. If the temperature is over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s dangerous to leave it out over an hour. Otherwise, two hours should be the limit.
If you’ll be out all day in the sun, a wide brimmed hat can help prevent sun damage to the skin on your face.