News & Information
Spring Health Tips
Welcome, Spring!
Join the Sussex County Division of Health and Office of Public Health Nursing in welcoming the spring season! Stay healthy this spring with the following tips.
Spend time outdoors and get active. With the arrival of warmer weather, make an effort to spend at least 30 minutes outside and try to get around 150 minutes of physical activity each week. Going for a walk, a bike ride or a hike, playing catch with the kids or planting a garden are some ways to get outside and enjoy the spring weather. This will make you feel less stressed and more energetic.
"Spring up" your diet. Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables to help you maintain a healthy weight. Strawberries, pineapples, kiwi, bananas, apricots and lemons are some fruits that are in season during the spring. Seasonal vegetables include leafy greens, carrots, onions, mushrooms, celery and broccoli. Fruits and vegetables cost less when they are in season. Be sure to incorporate fiber, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy products into your healthy diet.
Be prepared for seasonal allergies. You can control allergy symptoms by regularly washing linens and blankets, avoiding time outside and closing windows and doors when the pollen count is high and stocking up on allergy medication early. Try to eat foods that are good sources of vitamin C, such as oranges, bell peppers and strawberries, to ease symptoms.
Protect your skin. While it is beneficial to get outside this spring, too much sun exposure can be harmful. As you begin to spend more time outdoors, take precaution to protect your skin from the sun. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Seeking shade and wearing protective clothing, hats and sunglasses can also help protect you and your family.
Avoid insect bites and stings. Spring is the start of the insect season. Use insect repellent to protect you and your family from tick and mosquito bites. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants can keep insects away as well. Be aware of where to expect ticks and check your body for ticks after being outdoors.
Visit www.sussex.nj.us/nursing for more health education topics.