Summer’s Around the Corner: Health Benefits of the Season
This guest blog post comes to you from Dana Taylor, a Nutrition Intern with Wholesome Health this summer. Dana and I will be collaborating on some great content to support you throughout this vibrant season - stay tuned for more!
Although summer doesn’t officially kick off until June 21st, those of us in the Pacific Northwest are eager for this seasonal shift. We feel it in our bones – we’re ready for all the joy and relaxation that summer brings: the restorative warmth of the sun, picnics in the park, picking fresh summer berries, or a simple after-dinner stroll.
Summertime not only brings warmer temps and longer days, but there are many health benefits associated with this vibrant season. We innately feel more relaxed, yet energetic and up for new adventures. Science supports this experience in many interesting ways!
Sun = natural source of vitamin D
For one, more sunlight means more opportunities for beneficial sun exposure, which results in the natural production of vitamin D in our bodies. In fact, vitamin D produced in the skin may last twice as long in the blood compared with the vitamin ingested via food or supplements.
Vitamin D is associated with myriad health benefits throughout the body, including immune health, calcium regulation, strong bones, positive mood, disease prevention, and so much more. Let yourself bask in approximately 15 minutes of natural sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm to reap the benefits of natural vitamin D. Consult with your health care provider on questions regarding proper sun protection.
Summer foods are better for the body
Summertime, especially in the Pacific Northwest, is when nature’s bounty is overflowing with goodness. After many months of growth and endurance to reach the finish line, our favorite fresh foods are now readily available. In the warm summer months, the following foods are abundant, nutrient-dense, and bursting with flavor:
Corn
Berries
Peaches
Melons
Zucchini and summer squash
In fact, foods grown and harvested in their natural season taste better, are less expensive, have a higher nutritional value, and support our natural nutrition needs for the season. For example, peaches are rich in beta-carotene, which is associated with skin protection, and contain many different protective antioxidants that are active in disease prevention.
Check out the Seasonal Food Guide, or head to your favorite farmer’s market or local farm stand to tap into the freshest, most delicious food around. Try this recipe for blueberry and corn salad and pair it with your favorite grilled lean protein.
Being in nature is healing
Spending time outside and getting ample “vitamin N” (N for nature) is simply easier when the sun is shining, and the temperatures are warm enough for your favorite t-shirt and shorts. Exposure to adequate time in nature is also associated with a wide range of physical and emotional health benefits, such as reduced stress, improved mood, and even strengthened immunity.
Even just a few minutes in nature has also been found to improve attention, decision-making and energy. These benefits originate from our plants and trees, to birdsong, waves crashing, and a sense of grounding that comes from resting our bare toes in the grass.
Research shows that people who spend at least 2 hours in nature over the course of a week report better health and well-being, however, studies demonstrate that as little as 10 minutes per day result in significant improvements in well-being.
Bottom line: you will feel better from regularly getting outside, even in small doses, in any way that feels good to you. Some ideas for your summer routine: take a walk after lunch or dinner, read a book under a tree, find a new hike, visit a local garden, or simply sit in the grass and take some deep breaths.
After learning about the many benefits of summer, what adventures are you looking forward to? We encourage you to explore what feels relaxing, fun, and restorative to you this summer. Don’t forget to bring along your favorite fresh summer foods!
