July 4th means cookouts, fireworks, pool parties, and celebrating our Independence! This year, make heart health a priority while enjoying the summer holidays. Here are a few tips to help you feel great, stay healthy and enjoy this 4th of July.
Drink water
Whether you’re celebrating July 4th at the beach or at home, be sure to drink plenty of water. Water is a natural way to cool your body down and stay hydrated. When your body temperature gets hotter than normal, your brain sends out a signal that causes you to sweat. Your body sweats to cool you off, and it is important to refill your body with more water. Be sure to keep a water bottle handy at all times this July 4th!
Go swimming
The July heat isn’t always a bad thing, go for a swim! Now that it’s finally hot out, you can take a dip in the pool. Swimming is an excellent way to cool off, and it’s also good for your health. Swimming at a brisk pace can improve cholesterol levels and cardiovascular fitness. Not to mention it is gentle on your joints. This 4th of July bring the whole family to the pool for a fun way to exercise and stay cool. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen before swimming!
Make flavored ice cubes
While drinking your favorite juice or water this 4th of July, keep your drink cool and fun with flavored ice cubes! Try adding a squeeze of lemon, fresh mint, and cucumber with water and pop the mix into an ice tray. You can even put fresh blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries in your ice. Serve these fruity ice cubes in fresh lemonade. This is a fun and creative way to keep you, your loved ones and your drink cool this 4th of July.
Keep cool in the shades
Celebrating Independence Day at the beach or park can be fun, however, it is important to give your body a break from the sun. Spending too much time in the sun can cause heavy sweating, rapid pulse, and even heat exhaustion. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella for shade if you’re spending July 4th at the beach. Try wearing a hat or picking a spot under a large tree if you’re having a picnic or at the beach. Shade not only keeps you cool, but it also protects from many of the sun’s harsh UV rays.
Time for ice cream!
Who doesn’t love a sweet cold dessert on a hot summer day? There are plenty of festive and healthy desserts to keep you satisfied this July 4th. This year, make your own banana ice cream! Blend the frozen bananas in a food processor until thick and creamy. You can serve immediately, or freeze again for a firmer ice cream. Top with strawberries and blueberries for a red, white, and blue dessert!
Stay heart healthy
Don’t forget to check you blood pressure with QardioArm while enjoying your Independence Day! We all need to take special care of our heart during the summer months. Be sure to keep this wireless BP monitor with you while at the beach or cookout this 4th of July. Check out how QardioArm smart BP monitor can keep you heart healthy all summer long here.
Post contributed by Natalie Cassidy: An avid health and fitness enthusiast. Natalie enjoys creating new healthy recipes and hitting the gym as often as possible. She believes that a healthy lifestyle leads to a happy lifestyle.
