In hot summer, cooling down is necessary to help the body maintain a stable temperature and function normally. However, many people still make common mistakes when cooling down, causing the body not only to not be healthier but also to easily get tired and suffer from serious dehydration. According to experts at the Mayo Clinic and Harvard Health Publishing, understanding these mistakes correctly and avoiding them is important to protect your health during hot weather.
1. Drink too much ice or cold water when thirsty
Many people have the habit of drinking ice or cold water as soon as they feel thirsty. However, according to Harvard Health Publishing, cold water can constrict blood vessels and reduce the body's ability to absorb water, leading to an unimproved feeling of dehydration. In addition, drinking too much ice cream can easily cause sore throats or digestive disorders.
2. Drink soft drinks, carbonated water or caffeinated drinks to cool down
soft drinks, carbonated water, coffee or tea containing caffeine are often diuretic, causing the body to lose more water than usual.Drinking plenty of sugary or caffeinated water in hot weather wont help you cool down, but it also increases the risk of dehydration and fatigue, says Lisa Young, a nutritionist at the Mayo Clinic.
3. Not getting enough water and electrolytes when sweating
When the body sweats a lot due to heat or exercise, not only water but also minerals such as sodium and potassium are lost. If you only drink water without electrolyte supplementation, the body can fall into an unbalanced state, causing cramps, fatigue and poor health. Electrolyte drink or coconut water are good options to compensate for this mineral content.
4. Relieve heat with drugs or herbs of unknown origin
Many people use cool-down drugs or unverified herbs to reduce heat in humans. This can cause unwanted side effects or put pressure on the liver and kidneys. According to health experts, you should consult your doctor before using any medicine or functional foods.
5. Not adjusting your diet properly in hot weather
Eating a lot of greasy, spicy or fast food during the summer makes the body hot, causing discomfort and dehydration. Instead, you should prioritize green vegetables, fruits rich in water and fiber to support natural cooling.
