Take Action With Your Health This Spring

Jillian C Smith, MD

Jillian C Smith, MD

It’s not uncommon during winter months for healthy habits to take a back seat. The cold weather causes us to hibernate, many of us spending leisure time bingeing on TV, snacks, and hearty meals. And, it’s not uncommon for health-related New Year’s resolutions to go by the wayside.

But don’t fret. Spring presents a wealth of activities, events, and flavors that offer terrific health benefits. Taking the following actions will help you and your family enjoy a happy and healthy spring season.

First, be sure to protect your skin. Spring sun can be harmful to your skin, in fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ultraviolet rays from sunlight are strongest in North America during the late spring and early summer. Before heading outdoors it’s important to apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin, paying special attention to the face, neck, ears, and arms.

Did you know that a thorough spring clean is good for your health? That’s right: A little tidy-up goes a long way when it comes to establishing a healthy season. Sweeping, dusting, and vacuuming dispose of dust, dust mites, pet dander, and several other allergens that cause congestion, colds and flu, and trigger allergies.

Take advantage of the nice weather to get outside. Whether it’s for activities such as going for a walk, relaxing on the patio, or taking a bike ride, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors during spring. Studies show that spending time outdoors has immense health benefits: breathing better-quality air, getting your daily dose of vitamin D, boosting your overall energy, strengthening your immune system, and stress relief.

If you haven’t done so yet this year, use spring as an opportunity to schedule important health care appointments. Existing health issues aside, there are several yearly doctor visits everyone should make. Schedule your annual checkup with your primary care doctor, see your dentist for your twice-a-year exam, and visit your eye doctor for a checkup.

It’s also important to get plenty of daily fluids, especially in spring when you’re outdoors and more active. A good rule of thumb is to drink between half an ounce and an ounce of water for each pound you weigh. Therefore, someone weighing 150 pounds should drink between 75 and 150 ounces of water daily.

Spring is ripe with a variety of healthy fresh fruits and vegetables—including asparagus, strawberries, broccoli, peas, and early tomatoes. Take advantage of these seasonal delights: pick up produce at a local farmers market or choose the freshest selections from your supermarket.

Personal health is a keystone to a healthy lifestyle, take action and enjoy a happy and healthy spring season.


Jillian C. Smith, MD, is the Medical Director of Cooper Urgent Care CentersClick here to get Cooper’s free Spring Health Guide with even more tips to keep you and your family healthy this spring.

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