Below are some tips on how you can stay healthy this summer while having fun!

Summer means warm weather, sand, BBQs, pool parties and the occasional getaway. It's easy to get carried away in all the fun and sun and neglect taking care of some basic health necessities. Below are some tips on how you can stay healthy this summer while having fun!

Stay Hydrated

Water is always the beverage of choice throughout the entire year. However, water is severely important during the summer when dehydration is at greater risk. Drink at least 2 liters of water daily and more if exercising or outdoors for more than a few hours. For every hour in the sun, drink at least 1 to 2 glasses of water. This prevents dehydration and replenishes energy levels while soaking in the rays.

Wear Sunscreen

The importance of applying sunscreen cannot be stressed enough. Sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer and the risk of severe sun burns, also known as sun poisoning. If not careful, this can lead to extreme dehydration and a trip to the hospital. Sunscreen has also been proven to help slow down your skin's aging process.

As a general rule, use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a 30 SPF minimum. One ounce, or about the size of shot glass, is considered enough to cover the body.

Enjoy Nature's Bounty

Fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables are at their organic best. Consuming foods that are cooling and light -- fresh fruits, vegetable juices, raw vital salads, and lots of water -- will nourish your body for summertime activities.

Include some protein with one or two meals. There are a number of light, nourishing proteins that don't require cooking. Most of these complement fruits and vegetables nicely-- nuts, seeds, sprouted beans, soy products, yogurt, kefir, and cottage cheese. Fish and poultry are also good choices.

Drink Responsibly

The summer sun may make a cocktail irresistible. However, alcohol fails to replenish water stores and dehydrates the body even more. While alcohol can still be consumed, do so in moderation. Males are recommended to drink no more than two alcoholic beverages daily. Women are limited to one. Sip on water between drinks, too.