Holiday Hydration
- Dr. Elizabeth
- Jul 31, 2015
- 3 min read
The long weekend is here! Time to relax, spend some time with family and friends, and get outside. Outside, where the sun is shining and it is HOT. So while you’re having fun this weekend remember to protect yourself from the sun. Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay happy!
First things first, SUN protection. Whenever possible, try to plan your activities around the sun, going out in the early morning or late afternoon, and taking some time indoors or in the shade when the sun is at its peak in the middle of the day—lunch break, anyone? Remember to wear sunscreen (if it wasn’t for sunscreen I would actually never leave my house in the summer, or would be a pile of ash), and reapply every couple hours, especially if you are swimming (or sweating). You’re looking for an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30, and get a friend to help you with those hard to reach places like your back— there’s nothing worse than a wonky patch of red skin that you missed! It’s also important to wear clothing that protects you, such as hats, sunglasses, and shirts/pants that cover your shoulders, thighs, and other highly exposed areas. Taking breaks in the shade when you feel yourself getting too warm is always the best idea as well. Really, the most important thing is to LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! Don’t be a hero by staying out in the sun too long if you feel like you’re cooking—it’ll backfire and you’ll be a total nightmare with red, achy skin! For more on safe sunscreens to use, check out this great site for 2015 recommendations: http://www.ewg.org/2015sunscreen/
Next up, stay HYDRATED! Summer activities are fun, and I fully support getting outside and being active. You just need to make sure that you’re drinking enough water, and notice when you need to take breaks. When you’re out in the sun, keep some water with you to sip on. This is especially important when engaging in activities, so make sure to be mindful and stay hydrated. If you’re not a fan of plain water, try adding some lemon, lime, cucumber, or mint for a fun, refreshing treat that has the added benefit of being very cooling. If you’re feeling really adventurous, try other additions to your water, such as some watermelon, or orange slices, OR get really crazy and try combinations of the above ingredients. Cucumber, watermelon and mint in a big old pitcher of water make for a great party drink!
If you’re doing something really active, sweating A LOT, and feel like you need a little more than just water, try making your own fast and easy electrolyte drink. Check out the recipe below, it tastes great and you know EXACTLY what is in it! It’s not blue, but it’s good! Anytime I can make my own versions of popular products I’m happy—that way you can avoid any unnecessary additives/ colours/ chemicals that your body doesn’t need, and it’s often much cheaper.
For your home-made electrolyte drink, all you need is a few simple ingredients:
¼ cup of fresh lime juice
¼ cup of fresh lemon juice
1 cup water
1 cup coconut water
¼ tsp sea salt
1 tsp maple syrup/ honey/agave nectar
Mix them up in a water bottle, jar, or whatever you like to drink out of and enjoy!
Now you’re prepared! So get outside, enjoy the lovely hot weather, and be remember to listen to your body and be safe. Happy Civic holiday!
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