Warmer weather and longer days give you plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. Here are some healthy tips to help you make the most of spring.
Refresh Your Diet
Eating a well-balanced diet will help you manage chronic health issues and prevent conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and arthritis. It’s important to give your body the nutrients it needs every day to promote physical wellness.
Spring brings various seasonal fruits and vegetables you can include in your meals to spice up your plate. It’s also a good time to try new recipes while certain ingredients are less expensive.
Here are some spring fruits and vegetables to try:
- Strawberries
- Pineapples
- Lemons
- Mangos
- Snap peas
- Cucumbers
- Bell peppers
- Asparagus
Put Some Spring in Your Step
Regular exercise improves your physical and mental health, but you should consult your doctor before starting a new workout routine. It’s important to establish a consistent exercise regimen and get moving at least once a day. That will help strengthen your muscles, loosen your joints and improve circulation.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during spring. Here are some ideas:
- Take a daily walk on your own or with a partner or a pet.
- Go for a quick bike ride around your neighborhood.
- Take up gardening.
- Grab your clubs and golf once a week.
- Throw a frisbee in the park with your kids and grandkids.
- Take an outdoor yoga or chair yoga class.
- Try an outdoor sport like kayaking or paddleboarding.
Drink Plenty of Water
Your sense of thirst changes as you age, so you may not realize you need water until you’re dehydrated. You’ll need to hydrate regularly if you’re getting more exercise, especially in warmer weather.
Health conditions like diabetes and certain medications increase your risk of dehydration. You should drink at least one cup of water for every 20 pounds of weight. But drinking more is not a bad idea if you live in a hot climate and perspire frequently.
Be Mindful of Spring Allergies
Blooming flowers, trees and grass all produce pollen, which can wreak havoc on your sinuses, airways and lungs. Consult your doctor about over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications and start taking them as soon as possible. That will allow your body time to build up resistance before the pollen peaks.
Here are some other tips to combat spring allergies:
- Check the pollen count for your area before you venture outside each day.
- Wear a mask while you’re gardening or cutting grass.
- Wash your hands and face after you come inside.
- Change your clothes after you’ve been outdoors.
- Bathe daily to rid your skin and hair of pollen.
- Vacuum and dust once a week.
- Keep your windows closed to keep pollen, dirt and dust out of your home.
SavaSeniorCare provides engaging indoor and outdoor activities so residents can enjoy springtime comfortably. Contact us online to learn more about our levels of care.
