-Healthy Tips to Try This Spring & Summer:

• Try to add 1 fruit or vegetable to your diet each day. If convenience is an issue, try buying bags of frozen vegetables and take out half a cup at a time for each serving you need.
•  Drink lots of water, 6-8 glasses a day.
• Exercise 3-5 times a week for at least 20 minutes. Take advantage of the weather and get out for walks in the park. Check out the Community Health Walking Series for a walking program--more information on this page.
• If just beginning a fitness program, start slow. We also recommend keeping up with your annual physicals. If you have been relatively inactive, please see your primary care provider, particularly if you've had any history of heart or lung disease. MDI HospitalÕs Cardiopulmonary department may be necessary to develop a program for those with more chronic conditions.
• When hiking in Acadia, remember the weather changes quickly and it is often colder at higher elevations. Wear layers to be prepared.
• After being outdoors, particularly where wet and dark, check for ticks--see this article about Lyme disease.
• Remember to wear sun block to prevent skin cancer and premature wrinkles.
• Wear your bicycle helmet--head injuries can be fatal.
• Gardeners, get your tetanus shot and when lifting, bend from the knees to protect your back.
• Beat stress before it beats you--take some time for yourself. When work and personal issues begin to overwhelm--relax, read a book, get a massage.