We welcome summer in anticipation of swimming at the beach or pool, sunbathing, enjoying the warm weather, and engaging in family picnics or other outings. This season is a favorite time of year for many of us: Nothing is more soothing or relaxing than sitting on the beach feeling the warmth of the sun on one’s face and hearing the waves crash loudly in the background. As much as we enjoy this time of year, however, it’s important to keep our health in mind as we go from one outdoor activity to the next. The following tips will help keep you happy and healthy through the season.

• Athlete’s Foot: After we leave the refreshing pool or ocean, our feet are constantly exposed to moisture. This warm, moist environment is the perfect environment for fungus. Pedal fungal infection, better known as athlete’s foot, can cause scaling and sagging of the skin of the foot, itching, and redness. To avoid this infection, dry feet thoroughly and wear cotton socks to allow feet to “breath.” Once an infection is established, antifungal oils such as tea tree, garlic, and oregano are helpful in treating it.

• Sunburn: Avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun is the best way to prevent sunburn, skin irritation, and potential skin cancers. Stay in the shade whenever possible. When you do spend time in the sun, make sure to generously lather up with sunscreen. Avoid products containing oxybenzone, octisalate, octinoxate, avobenzone, or added vitamin Aretinylpalmitate. Focus on sunscreens containing zinc oxide, a sun-blocking agent. Reapply often for continuous protection.

• Food Choices: When dining out or outdoors, be conscious of what you are eating. Avoid nutrient-poor food choices such as white buns, white potatoes, white pasta, white rice, conventional (beef and pork) hamburgers and hot dogs. Focus instead on complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat buns, sweet potatoes, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, lean/minimally processed turkey or chicken hot dogs and turkey burgers, fresh fruit and vegetables, and guacamole and salsa.

• Ticks: The best way to prevent a tick bite is to avoid areas where ticks are likely to be. Check with your local park or health department about information on tick infestations. Wear long sleeves and pants when hiking or spending time outdoors. Cover your arms and legs; tuck your pants into your socks. Protect yourself and your pets with natural types of pesticides. Avoid products containing DEET, pyrethrins, pyrethroids, or permethrin, as these chemicals can be harmful to both you and your pets. Keep your yard well maintained to reduce the number of ticks present.

Call Denville Medical & Sports Rehabilitation Center at 973-627-7888 to learn about additional ways to keep healthy this summer, or visit Denvillemedical.com.