8 Summer Tips to Beat the Heat
Summer is a much-awaited season for mangoes, but it also brings its own set of challenges. The high temperatures and humidity can have a negative impact on our bodies, leading to various health problems.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are common during the summer months and can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and even fatality in severe cases. It is recommended to avoid engaging in physically demanding activities during the hottest parts of the day and to keep a close eye on vulnerable individuals like children, the elderly, and pets who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. By following a few simple summer health tips, we can enjoy this mango season as well as stay healthy.
Here are some precautions to be taken during the summer season:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water and other hydrating fluids like coconut water, lemon water, and fresh fruit juices to avoid dehydration. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages should be avoided because they dehydrate the body.
2. Apply Sunscreen
Before exposing your skin to the sun, it is important to apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to shield yourself from harmful UV rays. Re-apply every two hours if you are going to be outside for an extended period.
3. Comfortable Clothing
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing to stay cool and comfortable during the summer season. Avoid dark-colored clothes as they absorb heat and can make you feel uncomfortable. Wearing silk, satin, leather or clothes with brocade, lace, net can cause skin irritation and rashes.
4. Stay indoors during peak hours
Avoid going out during the hottest parts of the day (between 11 am to 4 pm). If you go out, protect yourself from direct sun heat by wearing a hat or an umbrella.
5. Take a shower
A shower or bath can help cool down the body and provide relief from the heat. In hot and humid weather, our bodies tend to sweat more, and taking a refreshing shower can help remove the sweat and make us feel fresh and comfortable. Moreover, it can also help to prevent skin irritations and infections caused by excessive sweating.
6. Eat a healthy diet
Consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables containing more water content such as broccoli, tomatoes, lettuce, radish, cabbage, water-melon, Strawberries, Peaches, cucumbers, etc to help your body stay hydrated and healthy during the summer months. Avoid oily and spicy food as it can cause digestion problems and generate body heat.
7. Use insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects are common in summer. Use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito and insect bites, which can cause various health problems like skin irritation, allergic reactions, and mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, malaria, and Zika.
8. Be cautious while exercising
Avoid exercising outdoors during peak hours, and if you must, do it in a shaded area. Keep yourself hydrated and wear breathable clothes. It is important to exercise during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Wear light, breathable clothing that allows sweat to evaporate.
Monitoring the body for signs of heat stroke like dizziness, nausea, headaches, and fatigue is also important. Seek medical attention if you are really not feeling well.
With summer precautions, indulge in refreshing ice creams, natural cold drinks and juicy mangoes without letting the sun sap your energy!