Skip to main content

Prioritize Your Health This Summer: A Guide to Better Health

As the weather gets warmer and we’re spending more time outside, it’s a good reminder to focus on our health. Now is a good time to take proactive steps to improve your health, whether that means eating better, being more active, or finally scheduling that overdue checkup.

It’s the perfect time to challenge ourselves to take action before summer is over.

Eat Healthy

With an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetable available, summer is a great time to improve your diet Here are a few simple tips:

  1. Incorporate More Fruits and Vegetables: Aim to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables at each meal. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
  2. Choose Whole Grains: Replace refined grains with whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread. Whole grains are higher in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps control blood sugar levels.
  3. Limit Processed Foods and Sugars: Reduce your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and snacks. These foods often contain high levels of unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium, which can contribute to weight gain and chronic health issues.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is vital for overall health. It helps regulate body temperature, keeps joints lubricated, and aids in digestion. Start and end each day with a big glass of water.

Get Moving

Regular exercise can help you control your weight, lower the chance of getting long-term illnesses, and boost your mood. The benefits of keeping active are huge, and adding some movement to your daily routine doesn’t have to be hard:

  1. Find Activities You Enjoy: Whether it’s running, swimming, cycling, or playing a sport, find an activity that you enjoy.
  2. Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
  3. Mix It Up: Incorporate various exercises into your routine, including cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
  4. Stay Consistent: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise each week.

Any physical activity is better than none. Even small changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, can make a big difference.

Make Health Prevention a Priority

Preventive health care is essential for detecting potential health issues before they become serious problems. Regular screenings and checkups can catch diseases early when they are most treatable. Here’s why making prevention a priority is crucial:

  1. Early Detection Saves Lives: Many serious health conditions, such as cancer and heart disease, can be effectively treated if caught early. Regular screenings and checkups increase the chances of early detection.
  2. Peace of Mind: Knowing your health status can provide peace of mind. It allows you to take proactive steps to address any potential issues and maintain your well-being.
  3. Customized Health Plans: Preventive screenings provide valuable information that can help you create a personalized health plan tailored to your needs.
  4. Cost-Effective: Preventive care can save money in the long run by avoiding the high costs associated with treating advanced diseases.

Schedule a preventive screening with your healthcare provider or take advantage of services like VirtualCheckup, which offers comprehensive health assessments from the comfort of your home or at your worksite. With VirtualCheckup, you can complete your screening in under 30 minutes without taking time off work.

Don’t procrastinate. Take action before the summer ends. Schedule a preventive screening through your primary care provider or request your VirtualCheckup. Don’t wait for a health scare to motivate you—be proactive about your health today.