For most of us, summer is the favorite season. We love warm weather and take every opportunity to go for a walk, head outdoors, or visit a body of water. However, we must not forget that the sun is a source of harmful ultraviolet radiation, and the hot weather is a strong stress for our bodies.
Neglecting the rules for staying outdoors in hot weather can lead to many consequences, ranging from sunstroke or heatstroke to premature aging and skin cancer. To protect your body as much as possible during the summer heat, follow these tips:
- Dress appropriately. Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight and heats up more slowly. Black clothing, on the other hand, absorbs heat. The most comfortable clothing for your body will be loose-fitting and made from natural, breathable fabrics. And don’t forget a hat!
- Avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids—water, mineral water, lemonades, and fruit drinks are great options. However, soda, alcohol, and energy drinks will only increase thirst and dehydration due to their sugar content. Also, try to cool your body—take cool showers throughout the day, wash your face, or use wet wipes.
- Limit your time outdoors. At home and in the office, regularly ventilate the rooms or use air conditioning. It’s also best to limit travel by public transport—heat in confined spaces feels most intense.
- Swim only in designated areas. Forget about unregulated, deserted beaches, abandoned quarries, and rivers with strong currents! Never enter the water under the influence of alcohol.
- Eat properly. In the summer, the body requires less energy than in colder months. It’s recommended to limit the consumption of high-calorie foods or avoid them altogether. Avoid fried, smoked, sweet, and salty foods. In the heat, it’s best to eat nuts, fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
If you feel unwell in hot weather or experience heatstroke or sunstroke, seek medical help immediately. You can also consult with a therapist. To schedule an appointment at the "Medical Center" clinic, you can call or use the online chat.