There’s nothing quite like being outside on a hot summer day — but ending your outdoor fun with a trip to the doctor can quickly put a damper on everyone’s plans. Try these tips to protect your health and well-being this summer.
“Water is one of the body’s most essential nutrients. The body needs more when you are in hot climates and are more physically active. Freeze plastic water bottles, and take them with you for ice cold water all day.” — Claudia Burnett, MS, RD, LD, MLDE, CDCES, Market Manager of Diabetes and Nutrition Care at CHI Saint Joseph Health
“Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and reapply it at least every two hours. Avoid the sun during peak hours, or between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If at all possible, cover up with long sleeves, wear a hat and use ultraviolet-blocking sunglasses. And newborn babies should not be in the sun at all, as sunscreen is not recommended for babies younger than 6 months of age.” — Jessica Pennington, MD, CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group – Primary Care in Berea
“Simply being outdoors expands our world! Just think of how hearing a bird singing, seeing a beautiful garden or listening to children playing can delight and uplift our spirits — especially after days spent indoors for work!” — Sister Janet Carr, CDP, BCC, Manager of Mission Services, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling
“Choose the right clothing for the outdoor activity — lighter colors and wicking fabrics are recommended. Avoid cotton since it traps heat and moisture. Rest frequently in shady areas. Avoid drinking alcohol, soda andcaffeinated beverages.” — Donny Hardy, MD, CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group – Primary Care in Berea
If an illness or injury interrupts your summer fun, our primary care providers are here for you. Don’t have a primary care provider? Visit CHISaintJosephHealth.org/provider-directory.
A version of this article originally appeared in the Summer 2020 edition of Spirit of Health. For more stories like this one, subscribe to Spirit of Health magazine today.
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