Four Tips for Taking Care This Summer

When the temperature creeps up to triple digits, staying healthy can require a little more work. Here are a few tips to keep in mind for a healthy summer.

Read the leaves: If you’re going to be outside, know what poison ivy, oak and sumac look like. Check out this image to get to know these trouble makers.

Care for your air: Air conditioning – is there a more beautiful phrase? But the MVP of every summer in Louisiana can actually harbor a good deal of mold that can be quite dangerous. With this in mind, keep an eye out for anything fuzzy lurking in your vents, and be sure to call a professional to come clean your air ducts if you see growth.

Don’t be afraid to sweat: It’s hard to overstate how good outdoor exercise is. Just 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day can extend your life expectancy and by exercising outside where you work up a good sweat, you can boost endorphins, reduce toxins and improve your complexion. But be sure you know when you’ve had enough heat. Speaking of which…

Identify signs of heat stroke: Too much sun can be a serious problem, so keep an eye out for heavy breathing, headache, elevated heart rate and confusion. If you start experiencing any of these symptoms, take a break, get some water and cool off for a bit. If you or someone around you loses consciousness, it is important to consult a physician immediately.

Now get out there, get moving, and don’t forget the sunscreen!