Tips for a Healthy Summer

Great weather and long days give a big boost to any healthy summer goals. Follow these tips to maximize your results and avoid seasonal cancer risks. The long days and warmth of summer provide endless opportunities for fun. Why not make sure you are healthy while you’re enjoying yourself?

Choose in-season fruits and vegetables – Eating in-season produce is good any time of the year. It’s often less expensive because those in-season fruits and vegetables don’t have to be transported as far.

Travel healthy – If you’re traveling, it’s easy to let your healthy lifestyle plans slide. It’s hard to find nutritious options when you’re surrounded by fast food restaurants. And long periods trapped in a car or airplane can sap energy and drive up temptation.

Summer exercise – The idea of breaking out your summer wardrobe could be just the thing to push you into that healthy exercise routine you’ve been planning.

Barbecue healthy – Ditch the hamburgers and hot dogs. Red meats like pork, lamb and beef, and processed meats like hot dogs, ham, sausage and bacon increase your risk for colorectal cancer. Choose healthier proteins such as skinless chicken, turkey breasts or fish.

Remember Sunscreen – Perhaps the golden rule for a healthy summer is to make sure you stay safe in the sun. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Follow these simple rules to reduce your risk: 1) Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are strongest, 2) Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection, and dark, tightly woven clothing 3) Wear sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30, broad-spectrum and water resistant. Apply liberally every two hours.