It’s officially summer, and with the new season comes new goals for people to improve their health and well being. Regularly setting health goals for yourself can have immediate benefits and long-lasting effects that will aid you as you get older.
With so many people being more health-focused this summer, we decided to put together a list of three ways you can focus on improving your well being this season.
1. Drink Lots of Water
It seems simple, right? But you’d be surprised to know that according to the CDC more than 50% of Americans don’t drink enough water daily. Staying hydrated is key to your body's health and overall function. This is especially true during the hot summer months as heat can cause us to become dehydrated faster than in the cooler months of the year. Let’s not forget that the human body is made up of 60% water. So, by not keeping your body hydrated, you’re risking your body experiencing a seizure, kidney problems, cramping and more.
But how much water should you drink? Health experts recommend consuming between half an ounce to an ounce of water for every pound you weigh. This may seem like a lot of water to drink all at once, but simply take a few sips every 10-30 minutes, and then you'll have met your goal by the end of the day.
2. Get Lots of Sleep
We wrote an article a while back on the importance of sleep. In that article, we discussed that a lack of sleep could eventually lead to seizures, heart attacks, high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, diabetes, depression, and anxiety.
It can be tempting to stay up later because of when the sun sets, family events, or to watch that extra episode of Stranger Things during the summer. This is fine, but if you’re sacrificing the total number of hours of sleep you’re getting each night, then you should try and stick to a regular schedule of when you go to bed. It’s recommended that you get a minimum of 6 hours of sleep each night. This assures that your body and mind can get the rest it needs to tackle the next day (even preventing you from waking up on the wrong side of the bed).
3. Get Your Nutrients
This isn’t only for the summertime, but it’s a good reminder for all of us to be mindful of the foods we eat. Your body should be consuming the right amount of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water daily. Instead of thinking of it as going on a diet, view it as simply changing your existing diet to a healthier one.
Our bodies act like machines, and if they don’t get the proper amount of resources it needs, sooner or later, they will begin to break down and experience issues. By becoming mindful of the ingredients in the food you’re eating and choosing meals that don’t contain over-saturated fats, dyes, and chemicals, you’ll be off to a good start.
Visit us at ProActive Health today to “Align Your Spine, Realign Your Life!”
Ready to see a chiropractor, whether for the first time or as someone looking to visit a new chiropractic office? Dr. Doug Patterson or Dr. Michael Hummer at ProActive Health is the top choice in the Michiana area! He’ll help guide you in developing a plan to tackle a routine exercise plan, consuming the right foods, and targeting your goals with chiropractic care.
Dr. Doug Patterson hurt his back in 1993 and thus he first sought the care of a Chiropractor. After this experience, he decided he wanted to help people himself by pursuing chiropractic. He is a 1997 graduate of the Life University College of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia, and has been in practice for 25+ years. Since then, Dr. Doug has expanded his field of practice to include functional medicine, science-based nutrition, and now certified in Shockwave Therapy. Schedule a visit with Dr. Doug at ProActive Health today!
Dr. Michael Hummer is native to northern Indiana, Michael Hummer grew up very active and found great enjoyment playing football, rugby, and wrestling. Michael earned his undergraduate degree in Dietetics at Ashland University where as a student-athlete he was a member of the varsity wrestling team. After graduation, he went on to become a personal trainer, and through his passion for both fitness and nutrition, he helped people to achieve their own goals and acquire greater health and wellness. At the same time, Michael also enjoyed working with and inspiring the local youth throughout his community through his dedication as a volunteer wrestling coach. Dr. Michael earned his Doctorate of Chiropractic from Logan University. In this new chapter he is excited to apply his education and
versatile skillset in aiding the community as they strive for greater health
and happiness. Dr. Mike is now certified in Shockwave Therapy. Schedule a visit with Dr. Michael at ProActive Health today!