Summer is just around the corner, and with all the fun and sun come new opportunities to be a little healthier. So in the spirit of our mobile application, Morsel, we're taking a look at some quintessentially “summer” situations and giving you simple

things you can do to improve your health. So before you fire up the grill or dust off your beach chairs, take a look at our Morsel Summer Survival Guide.

Morsel #518

Learn and remember 5 names. Socializing at a party can help preserve your mental health - make it a point of memorizing the names of people you meet, and you could improve your brain retention while making a good impression.

Morsel #672

Before taking a dip in the pool, place one hand behind your back and reach up between your shoulder blades. Repeat with the other hand. Stretching before you swim not only improves athletic performance, it can also prevent numerous sports-related injuries.

Morsel #521

Go with grilled veggies or a veggie burger from the grill. Grilled vegetables can be just as satisfying as meat, with more vitamins, fewer calories, and less fat. If you’re craving meat, go for a hamburger over a hot dog – you can better limit your portion (aim for 4 ounces or so), and you’ll avoid the nitrates found in hot dogs, which have been linked to cancer.

Morsel #87

Run or walk in the sand for 5 minutes. Running is a great workout for your heart and lower body, and running on dry sand can burn as much as 30 percent more calories than on asphalt. Make sure you run barefoot for the maximum benefit.

Morsel #103

Situate yourself within 20 feet of a lifeguard. Rip currents are an ever-present threat, but studies show that with an attentive lifeguard, the chance of drowning is 1 in 18 million.

Morsel #37

Put on your sunscreen inside. To work properly, sunscreen needs to be fully absorbed into the skin. Allow at least 30 minutes before heading outdoors, and use at least SPF 15.

Morsel #248

Drink and refill your water bottle at least twice. Dehydration is a constant risk, particularly in the summer months. If you make sure to drink water, even when you’re not thirsty, you help ensure that your body stays cool and hydrated. Drinking water before a meal can also help curb overeating.

Morsel #211

Wear your lightest-colored clothing. Insects like mosquitoes use vision to locate hosts from a distance. Dark clothes are initial attractants, so help avoid them with your summer whites. Wearing light-colored clothing will also reflect sunlight and help keep you cool.

Morsel #310

Even if it’s cloudy, carry sunglasses with you. Even during brief spells of sunshine, UV rays can be harmful to your eyes. With proper protection, you can decrease your risk of serious eye damage.

We know it might be hard to remember all of these when you’re out there having fun in the sun. So download and print out our travel version for your backpack, your beach cooler or your back pocket.

Get Morsel on your mobile » Print the guide and take it with you »

  • judymehl

    This is great information to have at your finger tips

  • Patricia

    I like that about the Veggie Burger on the grill

  • Mary

    Veggie burgers on the grill are great– I use foil in case they fall apart. Also, if you must eat meat, 4 oz is about the size of your palm or a deck of cards.

  • Nancy Lorenzo

    I thought these were all very good and wise decisions to make and use. Thanks

  • Rami Isbaitah

    Great, short and very helpful tips

  • Fiddler

    Great illustration style and layout.

  • DEVEVA

    All of these suggestions were very helpful and is prolonging ones health.If you are not in the healthfield it is a widespread to become health conscious and these comments will assist you 1005.Thank you.

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