Summer everywhere, just as winter in cold climates, brings with it some unique health challenges. In addition to the obvious heat and sun, there are some not so obvious factors like the "weekend warrior" mentality to consider to get the most out of summer without summer taking its toll on you. In order to have the healthiest of summers...

1. Be conscious of the heat. Give yourself time to cool down after an activity.

2. Be conscious of the sun too. While exposure to sunlight is good for you, too much can take a serious toll.

3. If you will engage in strenuous activity, make sure you are fit enough first and always remember to stretch.

4. Exertion depletes the body of salts and electrolytes so make sure you eat the proper foods or take the proper supplements to replenish them.

5. Water. Drink lots and often. Don’t wait until you are thirsty and a simple rule of thumb is one ounce for every pound of weight daily. (ie-if you weight 150 pounds, you should drink at least 150 ounces of water daily)

6. Know your limits and obey them just as you would want someone else to obey your boundaries.

7. Be prepared. Make sure you have had a recent chiropractic examination and adjustment to insure proper function in your body.

8. Eat right. And, during the summer especially, make sure you eat at least 5 servings of fruit and/or vegetables a day.

9. If in doubt...don't. If your intuition is telling you no or stop, please listen.