Tuesday, April 3, 2018

Fun in the Sun Safety

Summer vacations to the beach are quickly approaching, and you want to be sure you are prepared for a safe, enjoyable beach day. Follow these tips to ensure you stay feeling energized and healthy during your beach adventure:

·     Pack Your Own Food
Food stands on the beach do not always offer the healthiest choices.  Therefore, it can be beneficial to pack your own snacks that’ll provide you with healthier options throughout your beach visit. Some delicious snack ideas that are perfect for the beach include: whole-grain crackers, cut fruits and vegetables, trail mix, or nuts. 

·     Choose Wisely at Snack Shops
Many beaches have food stands that offer a variety of beach foods such as burgers and fries. Frequently, these foods are not very nutritious and contain high amounts of fat. Try to purchase the healthy options that these shops sometimes offer, such as fruit popsicles, baked chips, grilled chicken salads and fruit smoothies. 

·     Hydration is Key
The combination of heat and physical exertion can leave you dehydrated during your trip to the beach. Be sure to continuously stay hydrated by drinking water. To spruce things up, pack sparkling water or a lemon water. Alcoholic beverages should be consumed in moderation, for they act as a diuretic and can increase your chances of becoming dehydrated.  Snacking on watermelon is also a good way to help you stay hydrated!

·     Keep Your Food Safe
Food poisoning can occur if you leave your food out in temperatures over 90°F for over an hour.  With this being said, be certain to put your food back into a cooler with plenty of ice as soon as possible. Cooled foods must be stored at 40°F or lower. Placing your cooler in shade can help maintain this cold temperature. If grilling on the beach, be sure to use separate utensils for raw and ready-to-eat foods. Be certain to cook raw meats to the correct internal temperature.

Following these tips will guarantee you fun, healthy day spent in the sun! 

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