Lily Trevino, Teen Board Member
Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart - Houston, Texas
Teen Board Member 2021 - Present
Lily is a sophomore at Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart. She actively volunteers with Generation Serve Houston, and through Generation Serve, she enjoys helping out at the Houston Food Bank, and Project Cure. In school, Lily is involved in HOSA, Memorial Coastal Crew, and the Key Club. In her free time, Lily enjoys running, baking, and spending time with family.
Splashing into Summer with New Goals
As warmer weather is quickly approaching, it is time many consider new health goals to accomplish this summer. It is important to think about and establish goals early and have a plan in place to reach those goals. Accomplishing a goal, whether that goal be short or long term, can leave a person feeling satisfied with what they accomplished, and institute a sense of purpose. If setting a goal for the summer months is something you may be interested in, consider the following common summer goals:
- Increasing water intake
It is recommended that the average person drink approximately eight cups of water per day. However, some people’s water needs will vary depending on their activity level, and other factors. Water is a vital nutrient that contain tremendous benefits for the human body. It helps with digestion, maintenance of body temperature, and the transportation of nutrients, to name a few. Water also helps energize muscles and helps to keep skin clear from blemishes. If you wish to focus on increasing your water intake, helpful tips include keeping a water bottle handy at your desk or car where it is easily accessible to drink and making it a point to drink water at every meal.
- Explore eating more fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are a great natural source of vitamins and minerals. They are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, along with potassium, and phosphorus to name a few. Fruits and vegetables can keep you full after eating, but are low-calorie, and low-fat. To eat more fruits and vegetables, try incorporating smoothies into your day. And remember, all fruits and vegetables are nutritious regardless of if they are fresh, frozen, dried, or even canned!
- Increasing physical activity
The general rule of thumb is the aim for at least thirty minutes of physical activity daily, but different people have different needs, and that time can fluctuate. Physical activity offers great long-term and short-term benefits. It can improve one’s mood, increase energy, improve sleep patterns, and control weight. Long-term exercise benefits include decreasing the risk of heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, and more. Setting out some time this summer to go to the gym, or even just for a walk, swim, or bike ride can offer outstanding benefits.
- Using sun protection
In the summer months, people tend to spend more time outside. Methods to protect yourself from the sun include wearing sunscreen, a hat, or visor. These methods can do more than just preventing sunburns, it can also prevent the risk of skin cancer, sunspots, and prevent wrinkles later in life. Sunglasses are a popular way to prevent eyes from the sun. Wearing sunglasses can prevent eye cataracts, block harmful UV rays, reduce migraines, and more!
It is important to make your summer goals personal to you and your health needs. Try to incorporate healthy habits into your everyday life this summer. If it seems overwhelming at first, try to gradually attempt these challenges. This summer attempt to be your healthiest self!
Lily Trevino
May 2022
