Get healthy this summer

Wellcare, the Medicare brand of Centene Corporation, and The American Legion announced their strategic partnership during the 104th National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. 

1. Stay Hydrated

• Drink plenty of water: Aim for at least 8 glasses a day, more if you're active or spending time in the sun.
• Eat hydrating foods: Include water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon and strawberries in your diet.

2. Eat Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables

• Local produce: Take advantage of farmer's markets and local produce stands for fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables.
• Healthy snacks: Choose fresh fruits over sugary snacks for a natural energy boost.

3. Get Active Outdoors

• Exercise: Incorporate outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, cycling or jogging into your routine.
• Sports and recreation: Join a summer sports league or try out new recreational activities like paddleboarding or beach volleyball.

4. Protect Your Skin

• Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
• Protective clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for additional protection from the sun.

5. Maintain a Balanced Diet

• Grilled meals: Opt for grilling vegetables, lean meats and fish instead of frying.
• Salads: Create nutritious and colorful salads with a variety of vegetables and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil.

6. Stay Cool

• Air conditioning and fans: Use air conditioning or fans to stay cool during peak heat hours.
• Cool showers: Take cool showers to lower your body temperature and refresh yourself.

7. Manage Stress

• Relaxation techniques: Practice yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress.
• Outdoor relaxation: Spend time in nature, whether it’s a walk in the park, a day at the beach or a camping trip.

8. Healthy Sleep Habits

• Consistent schedule: Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
• Cool environment: Keep your sleeping area cool and dark to promote better sleep.

9. Stay Safe

• Water safety: Follow safety rules at pools, lakes and beaches. Ensure supervision when swimming.
• Heat precautions: Avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours and be aware of signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

10. Mindful Eating and Drinking

• Moderation: Enjoy summer treats in moderation. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid excessive consumption of sugary or alcoholic beverage.

Incorporating these tips into your summer routine can help you stay healthy, active and safe while enjoying all that the season has to offer.

Wellcare is committed to the health and safety of the communities we serve. To see how Wellcare can bring fun, engaging and educational summer activities to your local post, please reach out to nationalevents@centene.com.