4 Tips For A Healthy Summer Prep

Now that summer is just around the corner, we thought we'd share some tips on how to transition your skin, body and lifestyle to the new season. Much like we tend to switch our wardrobes depending on the weather, you should re-evaluate your routine every few months – and there's nothing like a new season to do just that.

Did you know that your body and its needs change with the seasons? Everything from your immune system and hormones to your skin and nails may be affected by the seasonal cycle.

Here's how to look after yourself during this time of year.  

1. Support hay fever with Neutrient Total C 

Spring is synonymous with allergies. One way to keep those runny noses, itchy eyes and other hayfever symptoms at bay is with the help of vitamin C. This essential vitamin contributes to the normal function of the immune system and assists with protecting cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage. Research suggests that vitamin C may help reduce the amount of histamine you produce – that's why we suggest adding Neutrient Total C to your spring routine.

2. Take care of your hair with vitamin B

Seasonal shedding is a real thing, and while the warmer weather is shown to aid hair growth, things like sun exposure, saltwater and chlorine may cause damage and breakage to your locks. Now is the perfect time to trim those winter split ends and start fresh – we also suggest adding vitamin B into your routine, too. It's one of the best vitamins for hair growth as B complex vitamins like biotin, B1, B3, B5 and B6 are vital for the metabolism of fatty acids that help keep hair strong and glossy. 

The amount of biotin you need is typically around 30 mcg for adults – easily achievable through diet. Altrient B is a super absorbable liposomal supplement containing a full range of B vitamins, plus zinc and selenium – all of which may help your hair stay healthy this spring.

3. Eat with the seasons

It's not just good advice for your weekly shop – your health may benefit from seasonal diets, too. Energy intake and metabolism may change between the seasons, as can your nutritional needs – that's why we tend to crave hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon and berries in the summer. While it's important to have a balanced diet all year round – especially if you're following a keto or LCHF diet  – seasonal produce tends to be cheaper, tastier and more nutritious. A 2008 study found that produce grown and consumed during its proper season has a higher nutritional value than the rest of the year.

In spring, asparagus, curly kale, carrots and rhubarb are at their peak. Summer, meanwhile, is the perfect time to add green beans, courgettes, cauliflower, tomatoes, strawberries, blueberries and plums into your diet.

4. Switch up your skincare routine

Did you know that differences in temperature, weather changes, humidity, and sun exposure all affect your skin? It's important to follow a routine that works with your skin phototype, but usually, spring and summer call for higher factors of SPF, lighter moisturisers and of course, lots of hydration. 

You can even add a few supplements to your daily ritual. Vitamin C is a cornerstone of collagen production, aids the elastin synthesis process, may help decrease fine lines and wrinkles and contributes to skin elasticity. Altrient's award-winning Liposomal Vitamin C provides superior absorption, plus it may make skin up to 61% firmer. 

We also suggest Neutrient Advanced Collagen to help replenish collagen reserves, as well as Altrient Glutathione to protect cells against oxidative stress caused by an overload of free radicals.