Keep Cool During the Heat Wave

Posted by Jennifer Gerics Jun 7, 2008

If you are finding yourself wilting during 90+ degree weather, you're not alone. Various medical conditions can amplify this heat lethargy. That's why it's important to pace yourself and avoid extreme heat and humidity. Ways to achieve this include:

• staying out of direct sunlight during peak hours (10 am - 3 pm)
• drinking plenty of clear beverages--- particularly water---- to keep hydrated
• eating protein-rich foods such as lean chicken, fish, certain energy bars, peanut butter, and lean beef
• avoiding too many refined carbs such as white breads, rice, and refined sugars because these will drain your energy more so in the heat
• wearing light-colored, light-weight clothes that dry quickly
• applying sunscreen to avoid a major sunburn
• wearing a hat and/or sunglasses
• taking in a matinee or indoor shopping during the peak sunlight hours

And take solace in the fact that it is still only June, so at least in the northern United States and other such latitudes, there are slightly cooler days still in the forecast!