It’s SPRING!! 

The GOOD

Fill Your Plate With Fresh, In-Season Fruits and Vegetables

Open your backpack now and put some healthy snacks inside – maybe a few mini bags of a healthy cereal, portion-controlled servings of nuts, a healthier turkey jerky, or some dried fruit.  One of the reasons we often make unhealthy choices while out is simply because we didn’t plan ahead.

Stay Hydrated

Start carrying a water bottle with you.  It’s a lot easier to stay hydrated when you have the water right next to you. If you do not like plain water, flavor it with lemons or other fruits you may have on hand.

Get Outside and Get Moving

Try an exercise that invokes your inner child. Jump on a trampoline, play hopscotch, and maybe play ‘hide and seek’ with friends. Being outdoors in nice weather is a mood booster. Leave the electronics at home and explore your neighborhood.

Soak Up the Sun

Visit a national, state, or local park and go for a trail walk, run, or hike. Getting out in the sun can boost Vitamin D levels. The spring sunshine feels so good following a long winter and is not a hot and humid as the summer sun.

The BAD

Watch for Allergens (Both Indoors and Out)

Whether an indoor or outdoor allergy, some things can help reduce or prevent symptoms such as regular saline nasal irrigation, medications as recommended by your health provider, and Probiotics. Outdoor allergens can stick to your clothing and shoes. Consider changing clothes and showering when you come indoors for the day. Follow the allergen forecast located on the right on our page. For indoor allergens, keep your home free from dust, pollen and animal dander by frequent sweeping or vacuuming. Utilize an indoor air purifier or filter depending on your home and consider either a humidifier or dehumidifier depending upon the climate in your home.

Exercise injuries

Make sure that you warm up and stretch prior to exercise and cool down afterwards. Learn proper techniques and stay within your abilities. Stay loose and listen to your body. Finally, dress for your sport and the weather

And the UGLY

But Do Protect Skin and Eyes From Damaging UV Rays

You can reduce your risk of sun damage and skin cancer by staying in the shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter. Your best bet to protect your skin is to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when you're outside—even when you're in the shade.

Tick Bites

Use a chemical repellent with DEET, permethrin or picaridin and wear light-colored protective clothing. Make sure to tuck pant legs into socks. Avoid tick-infested areas. Check yourself, your children, and your pets daily for ticks and carefully remove any ticks.