Heats increase, day succumbs, gets narrowed with warm temperatures, and feels as if one's work is not achieved. This brings danger to heat waves, mostly for the ignorant, especially regarding wetness. Dehydration: Causes tiredness, dizziness, and may even easily turn into a direct continuum of serious illnesses related to heat, such as heat stroke. Number one priority: Hydration! Here are some simple tips on keeping one's hydration, health, and cool in a heat wave.
1. More Than Just Drink Water
Your body loses fluids through sweating in the extreme heat; consequently, one has to drink more water even when not really thirsty. Preferably, aim for 8-10 glasses a day and more if you are active or outdoors.
Tip: Always carry with you a reusable bottle of water. And, set a reminder every hour to take a few sips, especially if you are someone with a habit of forgetting.
2. Eat Hydrating Foods
Hydrating solely comes from water. Have fruits and vegetables with a high water content in your diet. Here are some examples of such fruits and vegetables:
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Watermelon
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Cucumber
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Strawberries
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Oranges
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Lettuce
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Zucchini
Not only do these help hydrate you, but they also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
3. Limiting Caffeine and Alcohol Intake
All three have the common characteristic of being diuretics; hence, they can cause losing one's body's fluid. For someone who cannot compromise the morning coffee habit, it would benefit their body to keep drinking water throughout the day.
4. Restoring Lost Electrolytes
The sweating of the body implies not just loss of moisture but also of electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Coconut water, electrolyte-drenched drinks, or just a simple banana can be taken to replenish these. Making an Electrolyte Drink: A natural electrolyte drink to rehydrate would consist of some water, a little salt, a squeeze of lemon, and a teaspoon of honey.
5. Stay Indoors Within the Hottest Hours of the Day
As much as you can, keep yourself indoors between the peak hours of the sun from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cool off in shaded areas or rooms with air conditioning. The less one comes out of the heat, the less sweat is produced, and the lesser the chances of dehydration.
Wear Breathable Clothes
Loose, light, breathable clothes help the body manage internal temperature better, resulting in less sweating and water loss.
Bonus Tip for Pet Owners: Keep the pets hydrated! Make sure to check and refill water bowls more often, take them for walks in shaded areas, and otherwise play with them indoors.
Conclusion
It's a life-style change to staying hydrated through a heat wave in addition to water. Good hydration practices, eating for health, and minimizing direct sunlight exposure during peak sun hours have made it a great way to keep one's energy high and the body safe in heat conditions.
