We need to take care of our health during summer too
Despite popular belief that summer makes us healthier as we move more and eat less, new research indicates that this is in fact not the case.
During summer our health is put up against us drinking more alcohol, eating higher calorie foods and getting less sleep, according to the research by Seven Seas.
With summertime socialising to blame, nearly one in four people believe their diet and weight are worse off during the summer months, whilst their hair, skin, energy levels and concentration also suffer. And our purse strings are tighter too, with almost a third reporting to be more inclined to eat out during summer.
The sunny skies also drive the desire for a tipple or two with 4 out of 10 people in the UK admitting to consuming more alcohol during the summer months. Whilst one in four people will enjoy alcohol 3 – 4 nights a week, over one in ten people enjoy alcohol more than 5 nights a week, posing serious risk to their health!
And when it comes to exercise we’re moving less too, with one in ten people say they frequent the gym or exercise less during summer.
Dr Frankie Phillips comments: “It’s common belief that we lead a more healthy life during the summer season, but as the research shows, this isn’t always true. Eating a balanced diet is one of the most important ways to stay healthy during the summer. If you want to try taking a supplement to ensure your body gets all of the nutrients required to feel and look healthy this summer, it’s best to go for one that includes a wide range of vitamins and minerals”.
But what happens when we flee the UK for warmer climates? Findings reveal the bad health story continues overseas too, more than one in four British people have fallen ill or had a travel partner fall ill, whilst travelling abroad. Digestion issues are the most common cause of illness for over half of us, followed by food poisoning and sun stroke.
Despite the high rate of holiday illness almost 90% of Britons do not prepare their bodies on the inside before travelling. Whilst weight loss, waxing and manicures top the pre holiday check list, only 13% of Britons use supplements such as multivitamins or probiotics to boost their immune system in preparation for their holiday.
Washing hands and avoiding street food topped the list of health precautions Britons take during summer holiday, whilst only 12% take supplements (multivitamins or probiotics) during a trip to help their body deal with a new environment and diet.
“For those going overseas this summer, some studies show that taking a probiotic could help prevent traveller’s diarrhoea and help ensure you’re fit and well to enjoy your holiday” says Dr Frankie Phillips.
Dr Frankie Phillips’ Top 5 Summer Health Tips
Avoid BBQ belly: When you think of barbecues, thoughts turn to burgers and sausages, often high in fat and salt, washed down with a few beers. It’s also difficult to control portion sizes - we tend to keep going back for more, hence extra calories consumed!
Choose salad over slaw: Side dishes also tend to hide a lot of high fat foods. Potato salad, coleslaw and pasta salad may sound healthy and fresh, but these mayo-laden foods can be very calorific and high in fat content. Make sure your guests can pack out their plates with lots of fresh leafy salads. Choose lean cuts of meat, like minute steaks and chicken, ensuring it is cooked through properly. Limit your portions to just one plate and fill up with salad rather than lots of extra bread.
Mix up your drinks: Instead of drinking excessive amounts of beer, alternate each alcoholic drink with a glass of iced water or try small measures of spirits with lots of low calorie mixers, or a refreshing fruit-based punch with plenty of ice. Not only will you get a nutrient boost from the fruit, but you won’t get dehydrated.
Hydrate in hot weather: As well as the potential damaging effects on the liver, too much alcohol has many other physical effects, including dehydration, causing skin to wrinkle. Dehydration can be prevented by drinking enough fluid – normally 6-8 glasses, or a little more in hot weather, of water, tea or other non-alcoholic drinks, can help ensure we are well-hydrated and can help clear the body of toxins.
Balance body with B Vitamins: Alcohol can also deplete nutrient levels, especially levels of B Vitamins, which are needed for the body to metabolise (break down) the alcohol. Eating a balanced diet, with all of the essential vitamins and minerals won’t undo the damage caused by excess alcohol, but in moderation your body will be better able to tolerate it.
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