How to Deal with Summer Heat Waves? Summer is here, and so are high temperatures that take a toll on lungs, heart and skin. Heat waves should not be underestimated, because they pose a significant threat, especially as we grow older. Lemon water
The body is a reliable machine, capable of working on its own. Our body consists mostly of fluid and attracts other fluids like a magnet, whether it be water from the air or the water we use to wash ourselves. Humid air (close to forests, lakes and seas) does not make us sweat a lot, which results in less pressure on our bodies and fatigue. In the case of a dry atmosphere, the situation is exactly opposite. FIRST AND FOREMOST IS PREVENTION It is absolutely necessary to drink enough fluids during hot days. The most effective and easily available source is water. Take caution though; water must be clean and free of any undesirable metals. Filtered, frozen, and subsequently thawed water from a well without any turbidites presents the best possible option. Adding lemon or mint to such water stimulates the metabolism and cools the body down. During extremely hot days, when sweating is common, it is desirable to drink mineral water as well. It supplies the body with electrolytes, which can be lost in sweat. What we should avoid completely are soft drinks, milk, and drinks containing fat. Even the popular iced coffee with milk or ice cream is inappropriate. These drinks are very stressful for the kidneys, and it is therefore advisable to avoid them during hot days. The only exception is coconut milk, because it is light and does not stress the body. When it comes to keeping ourselves hydrated, light green and herbal tea is recommended. In summer, try fresh teas, for they are optimal for refilling the body with missing minerals without stressing the kidneys too much. In case you prefer black tea, drink it sweet and warm, which is the same way inhabitants of equatorial regions do. MORE WATER, LESS FOOD During hot days, the rule is to drink twice as much as is eaten. The portions should be always small and the food should be light. When opting for meat, eat just a small piece with a lot of vegetables containing a good deal of water (optimally green vegetables), because water supports the body instead of stressing it out. The only type of meat that does not stress the body is fish (ideally sea fish as a source of useful and valuable minerals with no adverse effects on metabolism). Fruit snacks definitely deserve attention as well, due to their abundance of water and carbohydrates. Apples, plums, peaches, pears, tangerines, melons, oranges, avocados, nashi (Asian pears), and lychees are great options. But be aware of two important rules: fruit should be consumed in the morning and around noon (the last piece 45 minutes before lunch), and never with a salty meal. Tip: LEMON AND MINT Both of them improve thermoregulation, accelerate metabolism, and subsequently help cool down the body. They can be added to both food and drinks. MYHERBSMAG.COM 89