‘Listen to your body’: Stay active all summer long with these tips from Dr. Rhett R. Frei with Vista Healthcare

Stock image | Photo by kieferpix/iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — Southern Utah’s beautiful, sunny days are the ultimate motivation to get outside and play, but soaring temperatures and vigorous exercise can be a risky combination. Avoid a summer bummer by taking precautions to prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion. 

Stock image | Photo by Chinnapong/iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

As a primary care and sports medicine physician at Vista Healthcare, Dr. Rhett R. Frei addresses general health needs as well as exercise-related concerns. Along with keeping yourself properly hydrated and as cool as possible, he said it’s important to remember that you may not be able to exercise to the same degree of intensity in the summer. 

“Be patient and allow yourself a few weeks to acclimate to the warmer temperatures,” he added. “Listen to your body and respond to the signals it’s giving you.” 

Dress for the summer

You don’t have to worry about being fashionable, but the right wardrobe choices will make all the difference when it comes to staying cool. Wear thin, lightweight and breathable fabrics, and opt for light colors that reflect sunlight away from your skin. 

“If it’s cooler in the morning, wear a light layer that you can take off as the day heats up,” Frei said. 

Shoes should also be light in color and made from materials that wick away sweat rather than absorb it. Be sure to wear sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun’s rays are brighter during the summer. 

Stay hydrated

The body requires more fluids than usual in hot temperatures because it loses water faster through sweating. To stay hydrated, Frei recommends using plain water as your primary source of fluids. For extended periods of exercise (one to two hours or more) in the heat, you might consider sports drinks with replacement electrolytes in them. 

“If it’s just going to be a 20-minute run or a 30-minute bike ride, water is best,” he said. “You don’t want the extra calories of the sports drink because those are meant to be burned over longer durations of exercise.” 

Fueling your body with healthy food is also crucial, but overeating prior to exercise can lead to an upset stomach. Try a light snack and save the meal for later. 

Get an early start

Stock image | Photo by Suwaree Tangbovornpichet/iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

The morning and evening hours are best for outdoor activities during the summer. Try to avoid exercising between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., when the sun’s rays are particularly intense. It’s also usually the hottest part of the day. 

Being active while the sun is directly overhead increases the likelihood of getting a sunburn, which accelerates the body’s loss of fluids and can result in dehydration. If you’re feeling fatigued or experiencing symptoms of dehydration – which include dizziness, confusion, extreme thirst and less frequent urination – consider taking an extra day between activities to rest and replenish. 

“This might be a good time to recalculate your intensity and your workout plan,” Frei said. “Recognize that the body isn’t able to perform as well when it’s hot.” 

Talk with your doctor 

Medications and supplements may contribute to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Some prescription drugs, like certain medications for high blood pressure, accelerate fluid loss through urination. Others, such as beta-blockers, slow the heart rate and may inhibit the body’s ability to cool itself down. 

“Be aware of what you’re taking and how they function within your body,” Frei said. “Always ask your health care provider if you have a question or concern.” 

It’s important to discuss the prescriptions and supplements you’re taking, as well as your exercise routine, with your medical provider. If any of them alter the body’s water or electrolyte levels, your doctor may have additional recommendations for safe use during the summer months. 

Primary care and sports medicine physician Dr. Rhett R. Frei, location and date not specified | Photo courtesy of Vista Healthcare, St. George News

Like many of his patients at Vista Healthcare, Frei enjoys the active lifestyle of the St. George area. He’s accepting new patients and hopes to work with people interested in maintaining their health through exercise.

“I really like to practice medicine as a partner with the patient rather than a provider that might be just dictating care,” he said. “I want the patient to be empowered to learn and become involved in their care.”

Vista Healthcare offers an exciting new view on medical care in Southern Utah. Along with primary care and sports medicine, available specialties include neurology, endocrinology, rheumatology, pain management, spine care, physical therapy and chiropractic care. Services are located in the Vista Medical Center, located at 2891 E. Mall Drive in St. George. 

Vista Healthcare recognizes the needs of the growing community and understands that many patients currently face extended wait times to see specialists to help manage their medical care. The group seeks to provide improved access to specialty care resources for patients across Southern Utah and surrounding areas.

Should you require specialty care that includes a neurologist, endocrinologist, rheumatologist, pain management, spine care, physical therapy, chiropractic care, primary care or sports medicine, give Vista Healthcare a call today at 435-215-0257 or visit their website.

Written by ALEXA MORGAN for St. George News.

• S P O N S O R E D  C O N T E N T • 

Resources

  • Vista Healthcare | Address: 2891 E. Mall Drive, St. George | Telephone: 435-215-0257 | Website.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2022, all rights reserved.

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