Check out the list of summer foods that will help you beat the heat.
Protect yourself from common summer problems like heat, itching, sweating and fatigue with these helpful tips from an expert.
As summer approaches, the most important thing everyone should start doing is staying hydrated. Extreme heat can make you feel dry and dizzy, so it is important to drink plenty of water and eat foods that help your body retain water and keep you cool.
Fruits like watermelon and cucumber are considered summer favorites. It is good for the body and also has many benefits for the skin. Dr. Priya Padmasini, a general practitioner in Tamil Nadu, recently spoke to Local 18 and shared some tips on how to keep your body cool.
Drink water: During the summer, our body naturally sweats to cool itself, which can lead to dehydration. That is why it is important that we drink more water, since lack of water in the body can cause a variety of ailments. In addition to water, we should drink buttermilk, young coconut, watermelon juice and others to compensate for the salt and nutrients lost through sweat due to heat. Additionally, drinking more water during the summer can help prevent dehydration, regulate body temperature, aid digestion, maintain healthy skin, and prevent kidney stones.
Fruits and Vegetables: Summer fruits and vegetables are not only delicious, but they also provide our body with essential nutrients. Summer produce is high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, all of which are essential for good health. Plus, in-season fruits and vegetables are generally less expensive than out-of-season alternatives. Try incorporating cucumbers, watermelon, papaya, and grapes into your diet. So stocking up on summer produce is a great way to save money while eating healthy.
Electrolytes play an important role: If you exercise, go for long walks, or have a physically demanding job, you should invest in electrolytes. Electrolytes can be obtained from solid or liquid foods. Specialty sports drinks contain all electrolytes, including sodium, chloride, and potassium, premixed. Bananas and coconut water have lots of electrolytes and are rich in potassium. Oral rehydration formula (ORS) solutions are available for severe dehydration based on the WHO formula.
Lightweight cotton clothing: Cotton easily absorbs sweat from the body. Cotton clothing has fine threads that allow air to pass through more easily than wool clothing. The more air flows through the clothing, the more easily sweat from the body and clothing evaporates, leaving a cooling effect.
Avoid non-vegetarian foods: It is best to avoid foods that produce excessive body heat during summer such as red meat, lamb and beef. Additionally, meat is easily contaminated in summer if not frozen properly, making it a common cause of food poisoning during this season. However, easily digestible vegetables and greens should be included.
Dr. Padmasini also warned the public that it is good to apply sunscreen and use an umbrella outdoors during the hot season.
