7 Ways to Stay Comfortable in Hot Weather

Looking after your health in hot weather can take some preparation and a change of habits, from the food we eat to what we wear. We all know that ultraviolet (UV) rays can be harmful and that we should wear sunscreen to protect ourselves. But a less popular form of protection is known as the “facekini,” which keeps the UV rays off of our faces and hair, something that’s especially important when hanging around water.

To make sure that you’re fully protected during the heat, Bright Side is sharing some lesser-known health tips to help you stay cool and healthy.

1. Wear appropriate clothing by the water.

While being around the water feels so refreshing and cooling, its reflective surface actually increases your UV ray exposure. This may not only lead to skin and hair damage, but too much exposure can also cause more serious illnesses. Sun protection, like sun creams and facekinis, can help to protect your face and hair from these strong UV rays. So don’t forget to pack them next time you head to the beach.

2. Eliminate extra sources of heat.

In order to stay as comfortable and cool as possible, you can try reducing unnecessary sources of heat at home. This can mean changing your incandescent light bulbs, which create a lot of extra heat. Other electronics can also add heat to your home, like computers left running or using the cooker. Try limiting the use of your cooker during the day and turn off electronics when possible to keep it cool.

3. Avoid protein-rich lunches.

Eating foods like seafood, red meat, and dairy, which are high in protein, can cause your body temperature to rise. This is because it takes more energy for your metabolism to digest these foods. Instead, it’s recommended to eat smaller meals that are light throughout the day. Eating a protein-heavy meal for lunch, at the hottest point of the day, can cause you to uncomfortably overheat.

4. Keep your thermostat low at home.

As the days start to get hotter, let your body adjust to the new temperature by not pushing yourself too hard. Start drinking more water and take it slow. According to research, it takes our bodies about 2 weeks to acclimate to the summer heat. Make sure that your house is properly prepared with blinds and that any gaps around your doors and windows are sealed to trap the cool air inside.

5. Exercise more, sit less.

It’s important to keep exercising throughout the year, including during the heat. Aerobic activities, like swimming and cycling, are perfect to keep your body moving during the heat of the summer. This helps to keep your blood circulation healthy and keep your body in form, instead of lazing around during the hotter months. Just make sure that you stay hydrated and take precautions, like wearing sunscreen and a sunhat.

6. Avoid sugary drinks.

Although they can be tempting, sodas, energy drinks, and over-sugared fruit juices can be damaging for our bodies in the heat. Because of their high sugar content, these drinks dehydrate us, which is the last thing we need on a hot summer’s day! Instead, it can be healthier to stay cool and hydrated on iced water, making sure that your body can keep you from overheating and dehydrating.

7. Take nutritional supplements.

During the hotter months of the year, it’s crucial that you stay hydrated and healthy, which can be helped by taking vitamin B complex and C. These supplements can give you the needed energy boost you need when the summer slump hits you. Vitamin B complex can help boost your energy levels and muscle repair, and vitamin C can help your body cope and adjust to the heat.

What changes do you recommend to cope with the heat? Which tips caught your attention the most that you’ll start using?

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