Summer not only brings warmer weather and fun outdoor activities; it is also a great time to take advantage of the in-season fruits and vegetables and local farmers markets. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of key vitamins and minerals that the body needs to properly function. According to the USDA, some in season produce you may want to try:
- Apples
- Apricots
- Avocados
- Bananas
- Bell peppers
- Berries
- Green beans
- Mangos
- Peaches
- Summer squash
- Watermelon
Another key thing to remember during summertime is the importance of hydration. Your body relies on water for so many functions and aspects that help you survive. For example, you need adequate water to maintain your body temperature, remove waste and to keep your joints lubricated. Staying hydrated does not just mean drinking water, there are so many ways to help you stay hydrated if you find drinking water to be difficult. You can get water from fruits, vegetables, milk and tea; there are just added calories when you consume these products that water does not contain. It is important to continually drink water throughout the day because we lose water every time we go to the bathroom, sweat and even when we breathe. If you are not continuing to replace that lost water you will become dehydrated. According to the familydoctor.org website, here are some tips to staying hydrated:
- Keep a bottle of water with you during the day
- Add fruit such as berries or lemons to your water if you do not like the taste of water
- Drink plenty of water before, during and after exercise
- If you feel hungry, drink water because often times, we confuse hunger with thirst
- If you have trouble remembering to drink water create a schedule such as at the start of every hour or at certain times throughout the day.