Smart Summer Essentials
Everyone looks forward to spending time outdoors in the summer enjoying parties and picnics with friends and family. But if the next day you are dealing with a painful sunburn, itchy bug bites, and possibly a hangover, it may not seem so fun.
According to Sherry Torkos, well-known pharmacist, fitness instructor and author of Breaking the Age Barrier and Winning at Weight Loss, there are natural ways to ensure that you can fully enjoy the pleasures of the season. All you need to do is take a few simple precautions. And even if you can't always plan ahead, there are still things you can do to feel better fast.
Here are a few of Sherry's Smart Summer Essentials:
- For Hydration: By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already dehydrated. When you're out in the sun, particularly if you are active, try to drink at least eight ounces of water an hour. Minimize caffeinated or energy drinks, because they can actually be dehydrating. Instead have lemon water or a rehydration drink such as Gatorade.
- For Alcohol: If you're going to have a few beers, or a couple of cocktails, you'll want to offset the effects of the alcohol with something that's easy, and that works better than a cold shower, or a greasy burger and fries. Guava leaf extract is loaded with antioxidants and other properties that help to prevent the worst side effects of drinking too much: dehydration, headache and queasy stomach. The most convenient place to find natural guava leaf extract is in berry-flavored Drinkin' Mate. It's great because you can use it before, during or after you consume alcohol. It's like sunscreen for alcohol consumption.
- For Dietary Support: When you know you're going to indulge in potato or macaroni salad, rolls or other starchy carbs, consider taking a supplement that contains Phase 2 Carb Controller, a kidney bean extract that can help reduce the digestion of starches and assist in weight control.
- For Sun Protection: Many people are nervous about the chemicals in sunscreens such as PABA and preservatives such as parabens. Look for sunscreens that contain natural ingredients such as zinc and shea butter, and don't forget to reapply your sunscreen when swimming, exercising or spending prolonged time in the sun. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and sunglasses for eye protection.
- For Mosquito Bites. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, and floral or fruity fragrances. They are also attracted to the carbon dioxide, body heat and sweat you give off when you exercise, so it's smart to take precautions. Volatile plant oils such as citronella, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint and cinnamon are all natural repellents. It's a good idea to have some tea tree oil on hand in case you are bitten because it helps relieve the pain, itching and inflammation.
With these smart summer essentials, you can squeeze the most out of your time in the sun naturally without getting sidelined. Keep these items in a tote so that you are always ready to go, and take advantage of every spur-of-the-moment opportunity to enjoy some time in the sunshine. After all, fall will be here again before we know it.
'Tis the Season to be Sneezing
Tips for Combatting Seasonal Allergies
Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes... these are the common symptoms of seasonal allergies, and a sign that warm weather has arrived. Approximately 20 percent of people suffer from seasonal allergies, also referred to as hay fever.
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts upon exposure to allergens. For seasonal sufferers these allergens occur in the form of trees, grass, or flower pollen. After the winter thaw, these plants come back to life and as they bloom their pollens become airborne. In someone with allergies, the immune system responds to these otherwise harmless substances as foreign invaders, producing antibodies, which triggers the release of inflammatory chemicals, namely histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins which cause itchy, runny eyes and nose, sneezing, increased mucus production, and inflammation.
Finding Relief
There are dozens of over the counter medications that can help manage allergy symptoms. Antihistamines work by blocking the release of histamine, thus improving symptoms of itching, runny nose and sneezing. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) has been around for decades and works well for some people, however it causes considerable drowsiness, and has to be taken every six hours. Newer products that cause less drowsiness, and are taken once daily include Claritin, Aerius, and Reactine. All antihistamines can cause dry eyes, mouth and nose.
Decongestants help to relieve sinus congestion, or that feeling of fullness and pressure in your face. Pseudoephedrine is a common decongestant. It works well, but can cause insomnia, racing heart, increased blood pressure, and irritability. Decongestant nasal sprays can be used for relief of sinus congestion, however their use should be limited to three days because of the risk of rebound congestion. Those with high blood pressure, glaucoma or prostate enlargement should avoid these decongestants.
There are various prescription medications that may be used for those with severe allergies.
Natural remedies for Allergies
According to Holistic Pharmacist and Author Sherry Torkos, those looking for natural ways to manage and prevent allergies can consider the following products:
Nasaleze - a nasal powder that is inhaled and forms a barrier in the nostrils against allergens. It has no side effects or drug interactions and is safe even for children and pregnant women. Several studies have shown that it reduces allergy symptoms and the need for medication. Nasaleze is used daily to prevent allergy attacks.
Aller-7 - a combination of seven plant extracts that reduces allergy symptoms when taken regularly.
Moducare - a mixture of plant sterols and sterolins (plant fats) that helps balance the immune system.
Probiotics - help replenish gastrointestinal flora, which is important for immune function. Preliminary research shows benefits for allergies.
Vitamin C - helps reduce histamine production. This immune boosting supplement works well when taken with quercetin, a flavonoid with antihistamine properties.
Reducing your exposure to allergens
"Know your triggers and try to avoid them," explains Torkos. "Pollen production is highest between 5am and 10am so minimize being outdoors during this time. Heavy rain reduces pollen in the air, making post-shower outings safer."
Other things to keep in mind:
- Wear a mask when cutting the grass or gardening.
- Don't dry your clothes outside as they can collect pollen.
- Keep your windows closed to prevent pollen from blowing into your home.
- Use an air purifier to remove allergens from your home.
- Use a vacuum with a double bag and a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
- Don't keep cut flowers in the house and minimize indoor plants. Wet dirt allows mould to grow.
