Aging Backwards Tuesday Tips #53: Younger This Summer

Well, it's official - summer is here. With most areas of the country bathed in heat, this is a good time to lighten up on meals, since heavy food doesn't go down as well in summer as it does in winter.

Try these tips for an Aging Backwards summer season:

1) A simple eating plan: super-size your veggies and half-size everything else! I had a friend in high school, Frederica, who lost 50 pounds over the summer break. I asked her how she did it and she told me, "I just ate half of everything I wanted. If I wanted a sandwich, I ate half a sandwich. If I wanted a cookie, I ate half a cookie." I added "super-size your veggies" to ensure that you get your important nutrients. By the way, eating sugar ages you, hint, hint.

2) Try this refresher. Freeze antioxidant-rich pomegranate juice in ice trays and put a couple of cubes in your water for an Aging Backwards refreshing drink.

3) Let nature soften your hair. Catch rainwater from a summer shower in a bucket and use it to rinse your hair after shampooing. It feels great and softens hair.

4) Volunteer at an independent living facility. The residents are active and vibrant and they appreciate your attention. You'll feel good about giving back. And who knows, maybe you'll learn something precious from these vital seniors?

5) Train your brain. Start a Scrabble group to keep your mind sharp and help your friends do the same.

6) Jump rope with your kids. It's one of the best exercises and it's fun! Your children won't even know it's good for them!

7) Cool down. Keep a little spray bottle of water in your purse to spritz your face on those really hot days (or for hot flashes). While at work, you can keep it in the fridge for a cool reviver.

Don't let summer's heat make you wilt. Keeping yourself cool - and keeping a cool head - this summer can be the first step toward Aging Backwards.