Hot Weather Problems

Normally, the body cools itself by sweating. If temperatures and humidity are extremely high, however, sweating is not effective in maintaining the body's normal temperature. Heat stress can cause many medical problems including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heart failure and stroke. There are some tips for avoiding heat problems.

* Drink plenty of fluids: Your body's ability to sweat and cool down depends on adequate rehydration. Drink plenty of water while you're working out — even if you don't feel thirsty. Make an extra effort to drink a minimum of six to eight 8 oz. glasses of cool fluids daily. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol, which actually promote fluid loss.

* Protect your Body : Wear clothing that is loose fitting and lightly colored — preferably made of cotton or a sweat-wicking material. Stay away from dark-colored clothing like black and dark blue — they soak up sunlight and heat. When spending time outdoors, avoid direct sunlight, wear a hat and use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor.

* Exercise before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m., when it's likely to be cooler outdoors. If possible, exercise in the shade or in a pool.

* Avoid : foods that are hard to digest in order to reduce acidity and skin problems. These include sweets, fried foods, spicy foods, red meats and heavy gravies. Also, if you feel heavy, avoid the excessive intake of cereals, pulses, root vegetables and dairy products. Avoid colas since they do not hydrate - the caffeine in them actually dehydrates the system.

* Foods Perfered : In summer, instead of frying, baking and roast-ing, try steaming, boiling or stir-frying foods and water rich fruits and vegitables. Eat oranges, grapes, watermelons, musk-melons, apple, berries, pineapples, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, sugarcane juice, coconut water, herbal iced teas and lime juice.

* Keep you home Cool: Keep your house cool in the summer by preventing it from getting hot in the first place. Keep Windows and doors opened even in night. Never leave children, the elderly or pets in a parked car, not even for just a few minutes. The air temperature inside a car rises rapidly during hot weather and can lead to brain damage or death.