In this age of global warming, summers in India are hot at another level altogether. Along with the summer heat, comes a host of allied issues that can seriously threaten your health and well being. Summers in India can be brutal, but fortunately there are precautions you can take in order to survive the oppressive weather. So here are 10 simple ways to beat the summer heat.

 

  1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

The summer sun is the worst enemy anyone can face. The heat can sap you of moisture and minerals, leading to exhaustion and fatigue. Sunstroke too, is a very common occurrence at this time. The key to surviving the summer is hydration. Ensure that you carry a bottle of water on you at all times, sipping on it whenever you feel the need. A packet of ORS (Oral Rehydration Serum) too should be kept on your person for emergencies. Supplement your water intake with buttermilk, coconut water and lemonade. Avoid aerated drinks at all costs, the caffeine in them is known to dehydrate.

 

  1. Eat light, eat right

The summers are NOT a time for heavy, meat based foods. As most of us are omnivores, switching over to a predominantly less oily, more salad oriented eating regimen in the summers is very important, Veggies and herbs are packed with antioxidants and flavonoids that reduce the stress caused by heat on the joints and muscles, and are easier to digest, which is why they are key to surviving the summer heat. Lean meat, poultry and fish too, can be consumed, but moderation is the watchword.

 

  1. Cotton clothes and shades

Cotton is a fibre that breathes, and clothes made of it are key to a more pleasant time in the summer. Cotton has the tendency of leaving you feeling less hot. Another important must have in the summer are a pair of sunglasses. Keeping your eyes protected from the harmful UV rays and general heat is important as the sun and pollution can damage the eyes, making them more susceptible to infections.

 

  1. Avoid the hottest parts of the day

Try and get to office earlier in the summers and avoid scheduling meetings between 12 and 3, as this is the hottest part of the day. Try and schedule all outdoor activities either early in the morning, or towards the early part of the evening. The time between noon and 3 PM is said to have the most amount of ambient heat and humidity, that will sap you of your energy, leading to sunstroke and exhaustion.

 

  1. Seasonal fruits and veggies

Seasonal fruits and veggies, in every form are always excellent for your system. Watermelons, citrus fruits like tangerines, oranges, tomatoes and veggies like leafy greens and cucumber are high in their water content and consuming them is an excellent way of keeping your system cool. For more summer friendly recipes, check out our recipes section.

 

  1. Light exercise

Sweating in summers is your bodies way of keeping your system cool. Indulge in some light exercises like jogging, walking, calisthenics and yoga during the summers, in order to keep your body and mind fit, Mind you though that timing is everything. So early mornings and mid-evenings are considered the best times for any sort of activity.

 

The Indian summers keep getting worse every year, the only way to survive and thrive through them however is following these simple tips. If you have any questions regarding eating right, living well and switching to a more wholesome lifestyle, do drop me a line in the Contact Us section, or on social media, and I’d love to help you with your query! Until next time, live healthy, live well.