4 Easy Summer Steps Toward Better Health

As we move into the second half of our summer, we should ask ourselves if we’re taking advantage of the slower pace of life that typically comes with this season. Easy Summer Steps4TOWARD BETTER HEALTH Are we adopting new habits that might be easier to do while the livin’ is easy, with an intent to follow up on them as much as possible the rest of the year?

by Dr. Hojat Askari, Founder and Medical Director, Thumb Butte Medical Center

LOAD UP ON SEASONAL PRODUCE With the constant supply of almost everything in the produce section it can take a little time to figure out which fruits and veggies are actually in season, meaning they’re more likely to be grown nearby and at maximum freshness when they reach the store. One great summer example is berries of all kinds: blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries and related species peak in summer in the Southwest.

FLOSS EVERY DAY This one clearly has nothing to do with climate or seasonality, But it does require a minute or two of your time within a schedule based on habits as well as obligations. Flossing removes food debris and plaque that builds up in between teeth, helps prevent gum disease and can be done any time of the day, either before or after brushing.

PROTECT YOUR EYES If you don’t already, wear sunglasses while you’re outside with at least 99% broad-spectrum UV protection to shield your eyes from cataracts, macular degeneration and other disorders linked to sun damage. They also can help block out debris (though certain activities require more protective eyewear), improve vision

by reducing the sun’s glare and reduce wrinkling, too.

USE YOUR VACATION TIME Even if you have it on good authority that unused time can be carried over to next year or reimbursed when you leave, in most cases it simply doesn’t pay off to wait. Taking time off from work has been shown to reduce your blood pressure and stress level, benefit your mental health and lead to greater productivity while you are on the clock.