Beat the heat: How to stay cool this summer

Rose May Pimentel in Health

May 11, 2020 • 1 min Read

Summer is here again and summer means hot temperatures, scorching heat. The hottest recorded temperature in Metro Manila so far this year was 35.8 degrees Celsius. Too much heat produced or absorbed by the body can cause serious damage that is why it is crucial to know how to keep yourself cool.

Here are 10 ways from MedicineNet to keep cool when it is hot:

1. Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color.

2. Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than many synthetics.

3. Fans can help circulate air and make you feel cooler even in an air-conditioned house.

4. Keep plastic bottles of water in the freezer; grab one when you are ready to go outside. As the ice melts, you will have a supply of cold water with you.

5. Take frequent baths or showers with cool or tepid water.

6. Combat dehydration by drinking plenty of water along with sports drinks or other sources of electrolytes.

7. Some people swear by small, portable, battery-powered fans.

8. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as these will promote dehydration.

9. Instead of hot foods, try lighter summer fare including frequent small meals or snacks containing cold fruit or low fat dairy products. As an added benefit, you will not have to cook next to a hot stove.

10. Finally, use common sense. If the heat is intolerable, stay indoors when you can and avoid activities in direct sunlight or on hot asphalt surfaces. Pay special attention to the elderly, infants, and anyone with a chronic illness, as they may dehydrate easily and be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Do not forget that pets need protection from dehydration and heat-related illnesses too.

Stay cool, healthy, and safe!