Go Natural for a Healthier Summer

Go Natural for a Healthier Summer

(ARA) - The change of season is an ideal time to shed a little sunlight on health and lifestyle habits. Incorporating hints of nature into everyday regimens ushers in the new season and gives health and well-being a boost.

Consumer advocate, a.k.a. "The Queen of Green," Debra Lynn Dadd shares the following tips on easy ways to add a healthy twist of nature to your day:

"Brush" with natural twist: Invigorate smile care routines with new Crest Nature's Expressions toothpaste, which comes in three flavors that each incorporates a different natural ingredient. Choose between pure peppermint oil, lemon zest or green tea extract to rejuvenate your morning routine. These touches of nature complement Crest's trusted formula that whitens teeth and protects them from cavities to promote healthy smiles.

Drink to good health: Instead of drinking soda, try carbonated water with a twist of lemon and lime, or even add a splash of pure cranberry juice. You'll have the refreshing, sweet taste without excessive sugar and calories. For an afternoon pick-me-up, iced green tea with a little honey is a healthy alternative to drinking a soda, and studies have shown that the antioxidants in green tea may protect against cancer.

Enjoy the great outdoors: As temperatures rise, swap a gym visit for a brisk walk around the neighborhood or local park -- the fresh air will boost your mood and the change of scenery will reinvigorate your workout routine. Or, instead of the usual indoor aerobics class, try gardening as a new hobby; many scientists claim it is a great way to burn calories and build core body strength. Looking at nature's greenery while you exercise is more emotionally rewarding than watching numbers tick by on the clock inside the gym.

Get fresh: Fresh herbs are a natural and healthy substitute for adding margarine or high-sodium seasonings to your favorite recipes. Keep steamed vegetables healthy by kicking up the flavor with freshly chopped herbs. Even canned soup gets a lift from a dash of fresh parsley or thyme. Keep an herb garden on the window sill or pick up pre-washed herbs at the grocery store to increase flavor and reduce the amount of sodium in your diet.

Skip the chips: Instead of serving chips at an outdoor BBQ party, serve fresh vegetables -- green, yellow and red peppers incorporate the flavors of the season into your gathering, and have the crunch to satisfy anyone looking for a chip. An added bonus is that the array of pretty colors doubles as a natural, beautiful centerpiece for the table.

Adding these simple twists of nature to daily routines will put a noticeably healthy spring in your step.

Courtesy of ARAcontent