Summer might be in full swing, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to adopt some new healthy habits for the season. Here are some of the best habits to embrace to make you healthier and happier. Who says January gets to have all the fun with resolutions? From easy-to-adopt picks to options that are more lifestyle changes, which of these top eight are your favorite?
1. Get a flu shot (yes, now!).
A recent study has revealed that getting annual flu shots may prevent heart attacks. The study involved over 3,000 patients over 60 and it seems that these shots can lower your risk by up to 50 percent. Many people are divided over the benefits of flu shots, but this information might sway some doubters. Flu shots are especially helpful for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly.
2. Protect your skin.
A routine to start today is sunscreen. Every single day, even if it’s cloudy, put sunscreen on your face, hands, and any other part of your body that isn’t covered by clothes. Aging caused by the sun is largely irreversible. The younger you start this routine the better your skin will look as you age.
It’s also important to moisturize your face nightly. Oil of Olay is repeatedly ranked as the best line in the industry. If you suffer from dark under eye circles, consider adding a Vitamin K cream around your eyes and taking Vitamin K as a supplement. Sunscreen in the morning and a moisturizer at night is the best way to keep your skin in top shape.
3. Improve your supplement game.
Speaking of heart health, Vitamin K2 is crucial for a healthy heart, and fermented foods are rich in this vitamin. Yogurt and kimchi are just a couple of options. Of course, you can also check to make sure your multi-vitamin has appropriate K2 levels. A study has shown that people with proper K2 levels are 52 percent less likely to suffer a heart attack.
Cod liver oil is another essential nutrient. If you were traumatized by foul-tasting spoonfuls in the past, don’t worry. There are a number of pill forms available, and some even come with a non-fishy taste (just in case). This is an important supplement to add to your regular regimen.
4. Clear up acne with kitchen ingredients.
Organic apple cider vinegar is used by Egyptians to dry out a blossoming zit in 24 hours. You probably already have this in your cupboard and if not it only costs a couple of dollars. Blot the vinegar on the zip three times per day to dry it out without causing redness or flaking.
5. Make your skin beach-ready.
One of the best ways to improve skin’s appearance is with a honey mask. Heat up organic honey in the microwave until it’s hot enough to spread easily on your face. Allow the mask to dry for 20 minutes. Wash off the honey to reveal dewy, glistening skin.
Other great DIY masks can be made with avocados or mayonnaise. Add a couple of slices of cucumbers to your eyes to reduce puffiness for a completely free makeover. Remember that moisture is crucial so these masks should be used in conjunctions with daily routines.
6. Drink in moderation.
Those poolside daquiris are tempting, but learning to drink in moderation instead of excess is critical. Abusing alcohol or drinking in excess can have serious health complications. Plus, heat and dehydration (common in summer) can exacerbate the side effects of alcohol consumption. Drink a full glass of water between alcoholic beverages (no more than three for women for moderate drinking).
7. Get your 150 minutes per week in workouts.
It’s the magic number, and a combination of cardio, strength training and flexibility training (such as yoga or pilates) is best. Take advantage of summer options like beach volleyball or swimming, which is one of the best and kindest workouts you can give yourself.
8. Learn to cook.
Being able to cook healthy meals saves you money and puts you in charge of what’s placed in your body. People who cook regularly have less excess fat and are generally healthier. Plus, dining al fresco in the summer months is irresistible.
With eight motivational ways to improve your summer, it’s time to get started!
Melissa Bell
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