Written by As temperatures continue to rise around the world, more and more people are at risk of the dangers of heat waves. This is why it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with this hot weather.
If not properly addressed, extreme heat can cause serious health risks, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to stay cool and safe during these hot summer months.
Now, if the summer heat is already making you sweat and hot or miserable, be cool! *pun intended*
Check out these six tips to help you beat the heat but still enjoy your summer:
Stay Hydrated
When it’s hot, you’ll notice you’re sweating a lot. That’s because your body is working harder to regulate your temperature. If not properly handled, it may lead to dehydration. Its symptoms include dry mouth, confusion or dizziness, and headaches.
To stay hydrated when you sweat a lot, it’s important to drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Drinking at least 8 cups of water daily can help avoid dehydration.
When you’re outside, it’s best to always carry a water bottle with you to ensure you stay hydrated. Drinking cold drinks can also help you feel cooler and more refreshed.
Just a note. AVOID sugary or caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee because they are diuretic drinks. This means drinking them can cause your body to lose water, especially when consumed in excess amounts.
Keep Your Wrists Cool
Another trick you can do in hot weather is to run cold water over the inside of your wrists. These pulse points over your wrists are areas where blood vessels are close to the skin, so the cold will quickly bring your body temperature down.
You can try dipping a washcloth into cold water, or put it in the freezer for a while and then place it on your wrist. Placing it over your neck can bring nice relief. Using an ice cube around those areas also works well to keep you cool!
Dress for the Weather
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable materials such as cotton, linen, or silk. These fabrics allow air to circulate against your skin and absorb sweat, which can help you stay cool and comfortable.
Dark clothing should be avoided, as it absorbs more heat and can make you feel hotter. Additionally, always apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Eat Superfoods
Watermelon, cucumber, banana, avocado, citrus fruits, mint, and coconut water are all great choices to eat in hot weather. Other examples include strawberries, lettuce, and celery.
These foods have high water content and can help hydrate your body. They also have cooling properties that can help regulate your body temperature.
Try incorporating them into your meals and snacks to stay refreshed and energized during the hot summer months.
Enjoy Frozen Treats
Here’s an enjoyable way to beat the heat: indulging in frozen treats. Not only do they taste great, but they also help keep your body cool and refreshed.
You can try classic popsicles, ice cream cones, frozen yogurt, sorbet, frozen fruit, and fruit smoothies. But don’t forget to eat cold food and drinks slowly because you don’t want to have a brain freeze! As with all sweet treats, eat them in moderation.
Close Your Curtains or Blinds
You can close your curtains and blinds, especially with windows that may let the sun inside. Doing so helps keep your home cool in the summer by blocking sunlight or heat from entering your home.
You can also invest in block-out curtains to protect your home from the harsh sun. This way, you can reduce the need for cooling and save on energy costs.
A Bowl of Ice and a Fan
Here’s another simple trick to beat the heat in summer. Turn your fan into a refreshing cool mist machine!
To create this, simply place a shallow bowl or tray of ice in front of the fan. Next, tilt it so the air blows directly onto the ice. Don’t forget to refill your ice trays to prepare for your next cool-down session.
During heatwaves, it’s crucial to prioritize your well-being and that of your loved ones. Extreme heat can be dangerous, so it’s important to keep yourself cool and comfortable.
By trying these simple yet effective tips, you can stay safe while enjoying the warmth of summer. So don’t forget to care for yourself and your loved ones during these hot months!
