It’s Summer!
It’s Summer!
Summer is one season that we all look forward to, due to the vacations. An important aspect of summer is, staying hydrated. As simple as that may sound, people often tend to ignore it, which results in health issues.
Here are some dos and don’ts to beat the heat.
Dos:1. Dress light
‘Wear light clothes’ is something most of us have grown up listening to. There is a lot of physics to this phrase apart from the fact that dark colours induce more sweat. According to studies, light colours reflect heat, while dark colours absorb heat. Cotton and linen work the best as far as materials are concerned.
‘Wear light clothes’ is something most of us have grown up listening to. There is a lot of physics to this phrase apart from the fact that dark colours induce more sweat. According to studies, light colours reflect heat, while dark colours absorb heat. Cotton and linen work the best as far as materials are concerned.
2. Go easy on the exercise
Exercising is the best way to stay fit. An intense session of exercise can result in dehydration. It is advised to take short breaks between exercises and to consume a lot of water.
3. Go natural
Studies have shown canned/packed juices to contain many artificial flavours. It is hence advised to opt for fresh juice/tender coconut or buttermilk.
4. Drink lots of water
Staying hydrated is important during the summer. Always carry a bottle of water with you and ensure to consume more than a litre of water every day.
5. Always carry an umbrella
Avoid going out during the noon when the sun is at its peak. Always carry an umbrella while stepping out. Apply sunscreen to avoid burns or rashes.
Avoid going out during the noon when the sun is at its peak. Always carry an umbrella while stepping out. Apply sunscreen to avoid burns or rashes.
Don’ts:
1. Avoid junk food
Avoid junk food/street-side food as they may end up making you ill.
2. Fabrics to avoid
Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics as they retain moisture and do not allow the body to breathe easily.
3. Avoid aerated drinks
Avoid aerated drinks and sodas as they may lead to a higher fluid loss. Aerated drinks are known to contain high quantity of sugar which can result in serious illness.
Avoid aerated drinks and sodas as they may lead to a higher fluid loss. Aerated drinks are known to contain high quantity of sugar which can result in serious illness.
4. Avoid consuming heavy meal
Eating a heavy meal along with a higher intake of protein increases the metabolic heat production in the body. When there is a higher heat produced, the body tends to lose its fluids.
5. Avoid caffeine
Coffee is a part of our daily life. But higher intake of caffeine can result in an increased heart rate which can in turn cause loss of body fluids.
Illnesses to look out for:
Summer is a season that not only carries fun, but also ailments like heatstroke, cold, diarrhoea, and other infections.
Here are some ailments to watch out for.
1.Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is a food-borne illness, caused by eating contaminated food. The symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and fever.
2.Heat Rash
This is also called prickly heat. The symptoms range from blisters to deep red boils. Heat rashes are caused due to extensive physical activity, clogging of sweat and prolonged bed rest.
3.Water-borne illness
Water-borne illness like jaundice, typhoid and dysentery are caused by consuming contaminated & unclean water.
4.Heatstroke
Heatstroke is caused by the body overheating due to prolonged exposure to high temperature. The symptoms for heatstroke include high body temperature, throbbing headache, alteration in sweating, nausea and vomiting, increased heart rate and flushed skin. Dehydration and heavy clothing are also stated to cause heatstroke.
5.Headache
Temperature fluctuation and dehydration can result in headache. It is advised to consume a lot of water and avoid stepping outdoors during the noon to keep headaches at bay.
6.Sunburn
Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to too much of sunlight. This extreme exposure is so dangerous that it can even result in cancer. The symptoms of sunburn are tender and red skin, pain when the skin is touched, dehydration and blisters.
It is advised to visit a doctor if symptoms of any of these ailments persist for more than two days.
Summertime Activities
Since summer curtails the outdoor movement during the day, there are many activities that can be taken up indoors like:
1. Developing hobbies
Summer is a great time to explore new hobbies. Quilling, origami, baking, yoga and painting are some of the hobbies that can be developed over time during the summer.
2. Honing skills
Skills like singing, dancing or even playing a musical instrument can be honed during the summer, as one would be spending his/her time indoors.
3. Indoor games
Indoor games are the best during summers. Games like chess, carrom board, monopoly and jigsaw puzzles not only induce quality time with family, but also help develop cognitive skills.
4. Reading books
Reading books are a great way to beat the heat. Reading also helps to pick up new ideas and thoughts.
5. Indulging in some DIYs
Do-It-Yourself activities are engaging and fun. The activities can range from simple windchimes and suncatchers, to terrariums and candles.
Summer is not always about the scorching heat, but includes various aspects like festivities, sunshine, family outings and engaging the kids. With proper care and precaution, dehydration and other ailments can be reduced/avoided to make the best of summer.
