What to eat, see and do this month

I know, I know: It feels like Brat Summer is just getting started. But all those back-to-school screenings everywhere suggest that the days of popsicles, pool floats, and sneaking out of work early on Friday to watch Twisted are coming to an end. The good news is that there’s still plenty of joy this month, from exciting sporting events (Olympics, Paralympics, and US Open) to fabulous culinary vacations. And since old habits die hard, maybe this watch-your-teacher energy can inspire you to bring back your own game when it comes to whatever life goals you let slip over the summer. Here’s how to get started…

Roll up your sleeve. COVID-19, flu, RSV, MMR, Tdap…. There are many vaccines out there, and you may not remember which ones you got, when you got them, and how long they are effective (in the case of Tdap, or tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, for example), adults should get a booster every 10 years). With August being National Immunization Awareness MonthTake a moment to review your health records and talk to your primary care doctor about any late (or forgotten) injections you may need.

Add zucchini to your dish. Believe it or not, National put some zucchini on your neighbor’s balcony It’s a thing, and it falls on August 8th. The idea behind this is that gardeners will have so much of this abundant produce that they will need to share just to get rid of it all. The good news is that you don’t need a green thumb (or a neighbor you actually know) to participate. Whether it comes from the garden or the supermarket, zucchini is a nutrient-rich pumpkin this is great for your diet (and digestion, thanks to its water and fiber content). If you’re still reeling from the zoodle craze of the early 2010s, have no fear: Zucchinis are great simply sliced ​​and roasted with a little olive oil (or avocado), salt, and pepper, or you can fire up the grill for a meal. fed up. zucchini boats topped with panko breadcrumbs and goat cheese.

Prepare. It’s National Golf Month! If you’ve never hit the greens (or your local putt-putt), you’re missing out big time health advantages in and out. Here are some tips to get you started, inspired by Scottie Scheffler’s recent gold medal performance at the Paris Olympics.

Get that back-to-school spirit. Class will soon be back in session for many children. And while your school days may be a distant memory, there’s something appealing about using this time to refocus and reenergize after (let’s be honest) some summer rest. What are your goals for the rest of the year? Is there a new skill you want to learn or some project you’re ready to tackle? Treat yourself to a new journal (and maybe some #2 pencils?) and write it down.

Peel – safely. If you like bivalves, you’re in luck: August 5th is National Oyster Day, but while oysters have a lot to recommend them—they’re a great source of protein, vitamin B12, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids – they can also trigger foodborne illnesses when consumed raw. Want to sip safely? Experts recommend ordering oysters from reputable vendors and restaurants, shucking only those with intact shells, and considering cooked alternatives (oyster stew, anyone?), especially if you’re immunocompromised.

Be a breastfeeding ally. August is National Breastfeeding Month, and here’s why you should care even if you don’t have a baby (or breasts): While people may debate the virtues of formula, “feeding is best,” and breastfeeding, we can all agree that Mothers shouldn’t have so much trouble trying to feed their hungry children. How can you help? Advocate for your workplace to have clean, private facilities for breastfeeding and pumping. Cover your nursing colleague, friend, etc. if they need a break to pump in peace. Keep your unsolicited weaning advice to yourself. And for the love of God, don’t mother shame, gawk, or flinch when you see someone breastfeeding in public.

Eat a peach. Those rockers from the 90s, presidents of the United States of America, had the right idea: “If I could, I would eat peaches every day”. If you can only pick one day, choose August 22nd, also known as “Eat a Peach Day.” Sure, peaches taste great, but they’re also healthy—helping with digestion, eye health, your daily vitamin C intake, and more. You can’t go wrong with a fresh, juicy peach fresh from the market, but if you want to whip up something even more special, recipe inspo (peach and arugula salad, perhaps?) awaits here.

Be careful with COVID. Unfortunately, COVID-19 doesn’t seem to have taken a break this summer. Cases are rising and every day seems to bring a new message from a friend who has just tested positive after returning from vacation or some summer get-together. If it feels like the walls are closing in, consider following experts’ advice about masks and other ways to protect yourself.

Eating outdoors. Did you know that there is an entire day dedicated to celebrating outdoors? On August 31st, grab a picnic blanket, clean up the patio furniture, or reserve an outdoor table at your favorite restaurant. Research has found that there are mental and physical benefits associated with eating outdoors, making diners feel more relaxed and more likely to make healthier food choices.

Have a cup of coffee: Rejoice, Java enthusiasts: August is National Coffee Month! And if you’re feeling guilty about your daily dose of caffeine, stop. In moderation — like, not a steady stream of cold brew that keeps you up all night and maybe not that latte with whipped cream and extra sprinkles — coffee is actually really good for you. It keeps your mind sharp, helps prevent a number of diseases, including certain types of cancer and type 2 diabetes, and is packed with antioxidants. Let’s raise a mug to that. (For the record, the Food and Drug Administration recommends no more than 400 mg of caffeine per day, although some people may be more sensitive to the stimulant and should therefore consume less.)

Make a racket. If Challengers and the recent tennis craze hasn’t made you fall in love with tennis, maybe the US Open, which starts on August 26th, has it? If you’re looking to get a workout to get your heart pumping, build muscle, and promote bone health, consider picking up a racket (and follow these expert tips to avoid injury in the process). Your pickleball friends will understand.

Consider adding Narcan to your first aid kit. Perhaps it’s unthinkable that you or a loved one could overdose on drugs — but they happen, as do accidental (often fatal) exposures to fentanyl. Last year Narcan — the brand-name nasal spray form of naloxone, which quickly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose — has become available over the counter. Experts say it could save a life in an emergency, and schools, public libraries and select airlines are among those that keep it in stock. With International Overdose Awareness Day falling on August 31st, it’s worth considering stopping by your local pharmacy or supermarket and adding it to your first aid kit.