Top Diet Hacks to Beat the Heatwave

Dr.Navneet Gill, 2 mins read

As the temperatures continue to rise and the heatwave intensifies, we have become prone to several health issues.

These issues may include dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses. Thus, it is essential to care for your body, especially during hot days.

This can be simply done by making some simple changes in your diet. Here is what you should do:

• Stay hydrated
  The first and foremost thing which you should always keep in mind in this simmering heat is hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to replenish fluids lost through sweating. Also, add hydrating foods to your diet like watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries.
• Eat light foods
  Having heavy meals during hot weather can make you feel sluggish and uncomfortable. Thus, it is good to opt for light, refreshing meals because they are easy to digest. Go with salads, smoothies, and cold soups. These foods will also keep you cool and energised.
• Include electrolyte-rich foods
  Electrolytes are minerals in our body fluid and blood. They carry an electrical charge that helps in regulating fluid balance in the body and aids in various functions. Common electrolytes are sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, calcium, phosphate, and bicarbonate.

When we sweat, we lose electrolytes. So, it's important to replenish lost electrolytes through our diet. Include foods rich in electrolytes, such as bananas, coconut water, and leafy greens, in your meals.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
  Both these drinks can dehydrate the body. So, it is good to limit these drinks during a heatwave. Instead, go with hydrating beverages like water, herbal teas or coconut water.
• Snack smart
  We tend to snack on sugary or processed foods. But instead of them, choose nutrient-dense snacks that will help keep your energy levels up. Go with nuts, seeds, yoghurt, and fresh fruit.
• Use cooling herbs and spices
  Certain herbs and spices have cooling properties. They can help lower body temperature and keep you feeling refreshed. These include mint, cilantro, fennel, and coriander. You can add them to your meals in various ways - try the way you like.

Takeaway!
Taking care of yourself during heat waves is very important. Your diet plays an important role in this. Follow these diet strategies to stay cool and nourished and protect your health from the effects of extreme temperatures.

Always listen to your body, stay hydrated, and eat foods that will help you beat the heat. And in case you experience any problem or health issue, get help from a doctor.