Tips to stay healthy this summer

Want to keep healthy and avoid the scorching summer heat, which is a common concern at this time of year? The summer heat is not only physically exhausting and uncomfortable, but it also puts us at risk for ailments like skin irritation, rashes, fever, dehydration, and food poisoning. While the summer heat is enjoyable, it is vital that we do not disregard our health. Extra care must be made to battle the heat and stay fit and healthy during this season.

• Consume plenty of water: Summer heat and sweat can dehydrate your body, resulting in unfavourable health outcomes such as fever and chills. Drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to keep yourself hydrated.
• Take precautions to avoid heatstroke: Another major issue that older adults face during the hot summer months is heatstroke. The main reason that older adults are more vulnerable to this is that their bodies do not adjust to temperature changes as quickly. High fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness are all common symptoms of heatstroke.
• Light and comfortable attires: In the summer, it is best to dress in breathable and lightweight clothing to keep your body temperature regulated in the hot sun. Instead of heavy clothing, choose natural fabrics such as cotton and linen.
• Indoor stays are best: Outdoor activities should be limited to the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings before 11 a.m. or late evenings after 5 p.m.
• Eat healthy and light: Consume small, frequent meals. Heavy meals with high carbohydrate and fat content generate a lot of heat in the body. Concentrate on fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as oranges, watermelon, tomatoes, and so on.
• Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear to protect your eyes from the harsh sunlight at work and at play. When going outside, wear sunglasses that block at least 99 per cent of UV rays.
• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Alcohol, fizzy drinks, and coffee can all dehydrate you quickly. If at all possible, try to limit your intake of these popular beverages, especially during hot weather. A good substitute is plain or flavoured water.

Our expert nutritionist Dr. Divya Gupta also suggests some diet tips to stay healthy in the summer season. She stresses on eating mango, cucumber, zucchini, watermelon and curd. She also suggests having Orange, cucumber and mint detox water. For this, take 1 orange and cut it into thin slices with peel, along with lemon and cucumber (with or without peel). You can also put mint leaves and add herbs or spices such as cinnamon, fennel seeds, etc. Place all ingredients in a water jug and let it sit for about an hour or so and then drink it. It will help curb your sugar cravings since mint and orange add sweetness to the water and gives a feeling of satiety. Also, it helps in increasing the metabolism and boosts immunity.

(IANS)