Everyone looks forward to the summer months. Tons of activities, vacations and longer days can make you feel alive after the dark dreary winter. It is not hard to tax your body when trying to enjoy as much sun as possible. However, too much food and play can leave you missing out on much of the season. Here are 5 tips to be healthy this summer so that you do not miss a moment of fun.

Drink Water, Water, Water

We have all been taught that we must drink water. It is not about quenching a thirst in hot summer months as much as keeping the body well nourished. Here are good reasons for going on a regiment of drinking plenty of water:

— Metabolism can be boosted by 24%

— Adds oxygen to the blood and lowers high blood pressure

— Strengthens immune system

— Promotes weight loss

— Improves mental clarity

When you wake in the morning, start off with a tall glass of water and keep it up throughout the day. Not everyone requires the same amount of water. Let your body tell you what it needs.

Swimming – The Ultimate Aerobic Exercise

If you have been away from the pool for awhile, your body will soon let you know. The pull of the water will seem much stronger than you remember. Setting up a schedule for regular exercise in a pool can help to maintain the following:

— Body strength is improved

— Muscles become more flexible

— Metabolism is boosted

— Great cardiovascular conditioning

— Build endurance to be able to swim longer

Swimming is such an excellent form of exercise that you should consider adding a pool to your property. For instance, pool construction Mobile, Alabama, is busy throughout the year providing a convenient way to exercise on a daily basis. Having a pool is worth the benefits.

Eat Healthy Summer Diet Foods

Snacking on a hot dog or a bag of chips is not a good way to keep your body happy in the summer. Chemicals and dyes from processed food will fight against your system and make it harder for vitamins and minerals to move around. Fresh fruit and vegetables are abundant during this season so take advantage of the added nutrition. Cut back on junk food. Here are some top foods for keeping in your kitchen for meals:

• Berries – blackberries, mulberries
• Melon – water melon, cantaloupe
• Pineapple, peaches, plums, nectarines, grapes, bananas
• Protein foods – salmon, walnuts, trout, sardines
• Smoothies made with fresh fruit and yogurt

Get Free Vitamin D – The Sunshine Vitamin

Over 40% of Americans are lacking in vitamin D. The sun is the best way to solve this problem. This does not mean that you have to live outside. Too much sun can create other problems. One study shows that 13 minutes of mid-day sun for 3 days per week is sufficient to get the recommended dosage of vitamin D. The length of time can be adjusted at different time periods during the day. The sun is most intense at mid-day.

It has also been found that darker skin individuals may need increased vitamin D and increased sun exposure.

Summer is a great time for getting your body back on track and feeling your best. Other suggestions include getting your body’s required sleep, refrain from doing too much too fast, and find a friend that is also ready to get healthy. It is much easier to share a goal with a like-minded individual than to try and go it alone. Plan picnics, hiking trips and other outdoor activities to put these ideas into practice. You will discover that you have more energy, are not as hungry and your mood will be much improved.