This the time of the year we’ve all been waiting for – but it shouldn’t be the time of year we drop our health routines!

Eating a fresh, colourful, whole-food diet is a bit easier when we’re surrounded by local farmers’ markets & a rainbow of produce. But don’t stop there! A few key nutrients are still important during warmer months, so let’s discuss each in a bit more detail.

Omega-3 fatty acids

These essential fats are very difficult to get sufficient amounts of, even if you’re regularly eating fish. They are important for skin, brain health, and mood, as well as pain & joint mobility. As we spend more time outdoors being active, making sure we get enough omega-3s can go a long way towards feeling our best. Plus, they are safe for the whole family! The little ones will appreciate a yummy chewable, while the teens and adults can stick with a high-quality (and still yummy!) liquid fish oil formula.

Keep in mind, omega 3s should always come from a reputable source, ideally using small fish for purity and best absorption.

Antioxidants

These are the sponges for damage inside our body & our cells. Antioxidants neutralize the toxins from harmed molecules, also known as ‘free radicals.’ And one of the largest sources of free radical damage in the summer months is the sun. Even if you’re diligent at applying your natural sunscreen & wearing protective clothing, your skin is bound to absorb some of the UV light from the sunny days we enjoy.

Keeping your free radical damage low can help reduce your risk of skin cancer, so why not add an extra boost to your daily routine? Vitamin C is one of the most famous antioxidants and, when coupled with other antioxidants known as bioflavinoids, it packs a powerful punch. An added benefit of vitamin C is its natural anti-histamine properties, which can help with seasonal allergies too!

Vitamin D

It’s also known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, so why would we need to supplement in the summer? Truth be told, Canada is quite far from the equator so even in the summer months, we don’t get enough rays to deliver adequate amounts of this important vitamin. It’s not only essential for bone health, but also for your immune system, mood, hormones and skin health. Most liquid formulas contain 1000IU per drop which is just what you should be supplementing each day, so it’s extremely easy to get your daily dose.

What better way to kick off summer than to feel your best & protect the health of your family? Now let’s get out there and enjoy the season!