Summertime and the living’s easy,” as the saying goes. School’s out, vacations are taken, and the sun is shining bright in the sky. Sounds like the perfect scenario, but when the temperature hits triple digits, it becomes a different story. We avoid going outdoors, we run the A/C 24/7, and the summer season we were highly anticipating all year long becomes a headache.
We’ve got you covered! Here are some tips to beat the heat this summer!
HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE
We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to stay hydrated, but we’re sure you already knew that! During the summer time, your body goes through a higher water loss due to perspiration, so it is extra necessary for you to replenish that water. The consensus is that you should drink about 8-10 8-oz glasses a day; however, that amount can vary based on whether you are male or female, age, height and weight, activity level, and even geographic location.
Not a big fan of plain water? There are plenty of other healthy alternatives!
As mentioned in our last blog, you can always try using water enhancers to add some flavor to your drinks. Another popular plain-water alternative is fruit-infused water, aka spa water. Adding fresh fruit and herbs adds natural vitamins and minerals to water, thereby increasing its nutritional benefits. Additionally, spa water helps flush toxins from your body and can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Visit our Pinterest page to see some delicious spa water recipes!
Coconut water also does the trick. Packed with potassium, simple sugar, electrolytes, and other minerals, it’s a great low-cal, low-carb alternative to soda and juices. Not only do the natural elements help you rehydrate, but they also help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, reduce stress and muscle tension, and assist with weight loss and reducing cellulite. Talk about a win!
Want to learn more about hydration? Read this article from the Mayo Clinic!
TAKE THE HEAT OUT OF THE KITCHEN
Using your stove, oven, or microwave can contribute to the heat traveling through your home. In an effort to avoid adding to the already warm temperature, why not try changing it up in the kitchen?
Salads are a great alternative. Not only do salad greens like spinach, kale, butterhead, and romaine help hydrate you, but there are also many salad variations, including the base (greens or grains), toppings, and dressings. There are also cold pasta salads, fruit salads, egg salad, potato salad – you name it! And if you want to add a little protein to your salad, opt for the great outdoors and grill some chicken, fish, or steak to throw on top!
Not a salad eater? Sandwiches and wraps can be just as filling and also come in so many styles, shapes, and forms. Sushi makes for a light, refreshing dish, and you can’t go wrong with raw veggies or chips with a side of dip!
FIND YOUR COOLING POINTS
If you’re still feeling warm and need a little extra to cool down, try a cold compress! The best thing to do is identify your body’s best cooling points (neck, ankle, behind the knees, forehead, etc.) and, from there, place a cool washcloth, ice pack, or even a cold water bottle on the area. In doing this, you will not only cool your blood temperature, but also your body temperature.
If you’re exercising, try wearing a cold bandana around your neck, elbow, or wrist – an easy way to stay cool while working on your fitness 🙂
DRESS COOL, FEEL COOL, LOOK COOL, SLEEP COOL
Opt for loose-fitting, cotton or linen material clothing, especially in lighter colors. Wearing dark, tight clothing, especially in synthetic materials, will trap heat and prevent natural cooling. Cotton fibers are breathable, allowing air to circulate and helping body heat dissipate to the surface and sweat evaporate.
This also applies to cotton bedding – keep cool with cotton sheets. For added coolness, place your sheet or pillowcase in a bag and put it in the freezer for a couple of hours. It might sound crazy, but try it! You won’t be disappointed!
EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM
Have a long to-do list that is just calling your name, but you’re dreading the thought of it because having to work in the heat sounds kind of terrible? Start your grind earlier and rise before the sun!
Come noon, the sun will be at its highest point, and the heat will continue to build (the hottest time of day is around 2 or 3). Depending on how hot it gets in your area, try to plan your day and make the most of the few hours of coolness to get what you need done. Whether it is chores, exercising, or just spending some time outside, the mornings are a great time to capitalize on.
