Summer is upon us and it’s all about getting fit and healthy so that we can relax and enjoy the outdoors and the good weather. Remember though, it’s not just about looking good, it’s about feeling good as well.
If you are planning a holiday whether at home or, if restrictions allow, abroad, then start thinking about what you are eating and what sort of food you are feeding the family beforehand. Loading up on gut-friendly foods before a trip away can help prevent the much-feared travellers’ diarrhoea, as “good” bacteria inhibits harmful strains. Specific bacteria have also been found to ease the effects of allergies, so shop for bacterial culture supplements suited to your individual needs before you go. Try Holland & Barrett Acidophilus Chewable Tablets which contain a combination of bacterial cultures and provide 1 billion active bacterial cultures per tablet.
If you are flying abroad, one good tip is to take an elderberry supplement before you get on the plane. Try Sambucol Black Elderberry Immuno Forte capsules for adults or Sambucol Black Elderberry for Kids Chewable Teddies to help support your immune systems. The elderberry contains strong antiviral and antioxidant compounds that can boost digestive health and provide allergy relief.
Staying safe and protected in the sun is paramount, so when it comes to thinking about what to pack, don’t forget to put sun cream on your shopping list. This is extremely important when it comes to looking after the kids because when the sun comes out and they want to spend most of their time in the sea or the swimming pool, there is an increased chance of sunburn. Try Holland & Barrett Nature’s Block Mineral SPF 30 Sun Cream which gives natural broad spectrum protection from UVA & UVB rays using mineral sunscreens. Then to soothe your sun-exposed skin Holland & Barrett Nature’s Block After Sun Lotion has a gentle rehydrating formula with added moisturisers and vitamin E that will leave it feeling soft and smooth.
Fighting the harmful effects of the sun doesn’t end with applying SPF sun cream. Eating nourishing, hydrating food could also provide protection from the inside out. Broccoli is rich in fibre but these crunchy green florets also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect. Drinking green tea in moderation can help you to stay hydrated and reduce the appearance of dark, under-eye circles and dry skin and could also boost protection from the sun’s rays, although bear in mind that too much green tea can dehydrate and there is no replacement for water.
Nuts are a rich source of healthy fats and vitamins A and E, and walnuts and almonds in particular are loaded with skin-boosting nutrients. Like olive oil, they’re also a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats which may prevent skin aging and help the skin renew itself.
According to one recent study, a diet supplemented with omega-3 fish oils increased the skin’s resistance to sunlight. Take three softgel capsules daily, preferably with meals, of Holland & Barrett Pescatarian Extra Strength Omega 3 Fish Oil which is a highly concentrated and purified Omega-3 Fish Oil selected from the finest deep sea, cold water fish.
Aloe Vera gel is great for naturally healing sunburnt skin. First, be sure to wash your skin with cool water, then apply the aloe vera gel. Dr Organic Aloe Vera Gel uses pure bioactive organic Aloe Vera. This ensures that the plant’s beneficial polysaccharide levels are captured and maximised to help soothe, moisturise and restore dry and sun exposed skin. This bioactive double strength gel instantly soothes the skin, leaving it feeling healthy, soft and bursting with cell restoring activity.
Many of us will suffer with mosquito bites and although the majority of mosquito bites simply cause a little discomfort and a small, red lump or swelling that itches, some people experience more severe symptoms than others. There are many different home remedies and solutions that you can try, including cleaning the bite and applying surgical spirit to the wound, but the best thing to do is to avoid those pesky mosquitos in the first place. Mosquitos are attracted to pheromones in sweat, so showering or bathing before going out in the evening can help to minimise this. Wear long layers and keep covered up because mosquitos rarely bite through clothes and it is also advisable to turn off or dim the lights because light also attracts insects. 100% natural Incognito Roll On Insect Repellent available from Holland & Barrett has a light citrus aroma and is a powerful insect repellent that gives protection from all types of biting insects like mosquitoes, midges, sand-flies, horseflies, ticks and many more.
If you’re going on a family day out, maybe to the countryside, to the beach or even to a festival, you will want to take a cool box with you full of food such as fresh fruit, easy to eat vegetables, fruit juices and water that will keep you hydrated and give you the energy you need to keep you going from dawn ‘til dusk. Don’t forget to pack some energy bars for a quick boost or the USN Trust Crunch Raspberry Cheesecake high protein bar for a special treat.
Wherever you are going, enjoy your holiday break but, most importantly, stay healthy.
