How to Fuel Summer Activities

With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to plan outdoor activities. Being outside can increase our production of vitamin D, a nutrient that supports strong bones and helps muscles move properly. 

Other Benefits of Outdoor Activities Include:

• Increasing daily steps
• Improving strength and physical health 
• Meeting new people
• Relieving stress
• Having fun

 
Try These Summer Exercise Ideas:

• Walk, jog, or rent bikes along the Charles River
• Exercise on the Greenway (check out these free classes)
• Sign up for a run club or a race (check out this list of local races)
• Plan a lake or beach trip
• Hike in Massachusetts or New Hampshire (check out trails in MA or NH)

Planning to be outdoors for more than an hour?  Pack a snack that contains carbohydrates and protein for long-lasting energy.

Snacks to Help Fuel Adventures:

• DIY trail mix: almonds + cashews + dried cranberries + granola
• Bars made with whole foods (e.g. Rx Bars or Kind Bars)
• Ultra-high-temperature pasteurized (UHT) chocolate milk (e.g. UHT Horizon organic milk – can be kept at room temperature until opened)
• Roasted chickpeas
• Apple + peanut butter 

(Please note MGH does not endorse any specific brands or products.)
REFERENCES:
Vitamin D Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. National Institutes of Health; 2018. Accessed 2019.