More than nine in 10 nurse practitioners and registered dietitians agree that a major barrier to Americans’ health is the stress of their daily lives caused by demanding jobs and hectic lifestyles, according to research from the “Life…Supplemented” Healthcare Professionals (HCP) Impact Study.

“The average American probably doesn’t realize they’re not setting aside enough time to focus on developing and maintaining smart health and wellness habits,” said Cheryl Forberg, RD, registered dietitian to NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” and consultant to “Life…Supplemented,” a consumer wellness program. “The summer months offer an opportunity to turn this around—by taking advantage of the warmer weather and slowing down with a vacation—both of which can motivate people to embark on the path to good health.”

With barbecues, family vacations and weekend street fairs, summertime offers Americans many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, take a nap or just breathe deeply, all good lifestyle habits that—when combined with the three pillars of health: healthy diet + supplements + exercise—can help consumers overcome some of the obstacles to wellness. This summer, “Life…Supplemented” is encouraging Americans to reduce their stress and live healthier lives with a few simple tips.

According to the 2009 Healthcare Professionals Impact Study, 96% of nurse practitioners and registered dietitians believe that stress in daily lives is caused by demanding jobs and hectic lifestyles.

Since most people work on tight deadlines, put in long hours and have tiring commutes, the summer months can be an excuse to slow down, relax and take a vacation. Whether it’s a long weekend spent with family at home or a vacation trip planned all year, the time spent away from the office can help de-stress and regain commitment to healthy lifestyle practices. These practices include adhering to a well-balanced diet, taking a multivitamin daily as well as other supplements and engaging in regular exercise. Remember to eat three to five small, healthful meals to keep blood sugar levels steady throughout the day, and as often as possible, incorporate fresh summer fruits and vegetables into the diet.

Ninety-five percent of registered dietitians and 94% of nurse practitioners believe not getting enough rest is a major barrier to living healthy. 

While the amount of sleep needed varies, getting the right amount helps promote a healthy body and strong mind.

Regular exercise helps improve sleep quality, as research has shown that 20-30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercises four to five times a week will aid sleep and increase energy. Several botanical supplements can help relax the mind and prepare the body for sleep such as lemon balm, passion flower, chamomile and hops. These botanical supplements can be used year-round to improve resting patterns. Finally, it’s also important to practice good “sleep hygiene” such as sleeping in a dark room and turning off the television an hour before bedtime.  

Eighty-nine percent of registered dietitians and nurse practitioners say staying indoors and not getting enough physical activity because the weather is too cold or too hot is another major barrier to being healthy.

Regular exercise is important year-round, but the summer months allow more opportunities for enjoying recreational activities outdoors.