Summer: the season of roasted marshmallows, ice cream cones, beach bums and barbecues. However, if you’re not careful, summer can also be the season of sunburns, hot sleeps, heat stroke and dehydration. We’ve put together a list of ways to stay healthy in the heat so that you can keep on having your fun in the sun.

1. Stay Hydrated: We’ve all heard of the eight-glasses-a-day theory of drinking water. The most important thing, really, is remembering to drink water throughout the day, especially during these summer months. If you find it a challenge, try adding lemon or cucumber slices to give it some flavour. Cucumber, watermelon and naval oranges are all examples of foods that keep you hydrated. Heading out? Be sure to bring your water with you.
2. Find Your Shade: Staying out of the sun is one of the easiest ways to avoid the heat. If you’re planning on spending time outdoors, try to choose areas with plenty of shade. When you’re home, keep your windows closed during the hottest times of day to keep your house from getting too hot.
3. Treat Yourself: Get out your blenders! Popsicles, ice cream and other frozen treats make for a delicious way to cool down. To make your own popsicles, blend berries, mango and freshly squeezed fruit juice, yogurt or coconut milk until smooth, pour into molds and freeze for 4-6 hours. To make your own ice cream, cut 4-5 ripe bananas into bite size pieces and freeze for 4-6 hours. When frozen, pulse with a food processor until creamy.
4. Cool Down: At the end of a hot day, open your windows and take a lukewarm shower to cool your body down. Believe it or not, you will actually remain cooler at night wearing pyjamas than nothing at all as it pulls sweat from your body. Wear pyjamas that are made from light, breathable fabrics.
5. Take a Break: Rigorous cardio-vascular exercise in the heat can put quite a bit of stress on your body, increasing your risk of heat-related illness such as heat-stroke and heat exhaustion. Take it easy by reducing the amount of strenuous exercise on hot days.
6. Cover Up: Sunglasses, hats, loose-fitting cotton blouses, long skirts and sun-protective clothing can all help protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. The darker the fabric colour, the better the protection.
   For more tips on healthy living, check out our web site at www.garibaldihealthclinic.com.

Happy Summer!

Yours in Health,

Dr. Ashely Gordon, BSc., ND

Dr. Ashely Gordon is a Naturopathic Physician and owner of Garibaldi Health Clinic, an integrative health care facility offering Naturopathic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Massage, Midwifery and Physical Therapy. For more information visit www.garibaldihealthclinic.com or call 604 898 1999.