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 po ssibly 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.

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