WELLNESS tips during Summer Season

Jaipur, May 07: Summer season this year has approached quite early. We have already seen temperature levels crossing 40 degrees in many places in India in March month and continuing upward trends in April. As we were gearing up to welcome the summer, we found ourselves already dealing with harsh effects of summer. As the temperature starts to soar, more and more people experience uncomforting conditions. Heat strokes, sunburn, stomach upset and dehydration are some of the side effects of the scorching heat that summer brings along. To stay healthy in summer it is important that we all take enough precautions to deal with the scorching sun and heat wave effects.

What actually happens in summers, our energy levels go down because of heat in and around the body and dehydration. More often, we tend to neglect the body requirements and changes to be made in our diet according to the season. As summer approaches, we have to be careful that our energy is not depleted. If you are feeling lethargic and drained out this summer, then try to focus on changing your diet and having sufficient amount of fluids.

Here are some of the simple tips to deal with summer and its ill-effects:

Some DO’S first:

1. Consuming Fruits and Vegetables– It’s such a good thing that we get so many fruits and vegetables which are good for hydration of the body and can be eaten cold. Examples are watermelon, musk-melon, mangoes, cucumber, kakdi, tomatoes, snake-gourd, amla, bael , pomegranate and so many more. These fruits and vegetables not only help in hydrating our body but are storeh-house of many macro and micro nutrients. They are extremely rich in water and have a nourishing effect.

2. Hydration– Water is rightly said to be the elixir of life. More so in summers. For proper hydration lots and lots of water should be consumed. There are a variety of refreshing juices that can also be taken such as watermelon juice, lemonades, chhaach, fresh juices etc.
3. Activity Level– Keeping up with our activity levels helps us to remain active and energetic. Exercising each day also helps in sweating and removing toxicity from our body.

4. Sufficient Sleep– The days are bigger and night duration is shortened which impacts our sleep patterns. It’s imperative to have a good night’s sleep so that one gets up in the morning feeling fresh. Having a good night’s sleep keeps us energized and vibrant. This also brings mental and physical benefits.

5.  Well Balanced Diet– As we are moving towards the hotter months of the year, our daily diet plans deserve a shift. With the temperatures rising, it is crucial to dig into foods that are cooler and have higher water content. At the same time, it is important that we have all the required nutrients in our food. Luckily, the availability of food items available in summers are the same as they are required by the body. So, nature is in sync with you and now you have to sync with nature. Some of the must haves are: coconut water, lemon water, melons, goose-berry, water-fruits, curd, fruits and vegetables of all colors.

6. Wear Cotton and Comfortable Clothes– The clothes that we wear play a significant role in maintaining our body temperature. Clothes that are synthetic trap moisture and thus lead to high body temperature.

Now Some DONT’S:

1. Avoid Heavy Meals: One should avoid eating heavy, oily and spicy foods during summers. Avoid high calorie foods too. One should also avoid processed foods, packed items. These types of foods increase the heat in the body which leads to lethargy in this season.
2. Avoid Tea/Coffee/ Packaged Juices– Excessive consumption of tea/coffee/alcohol leads to dehydration. They also increase the body temperature. It’s best to avoid these drinks in summer months. Packed fruit juices/ cold drinks should also be avoided for the same reason and also, they reduce energy levels.

3. Limit Sun-Exposure-Avoid stepping out of your house at peak hours during summers. Try to stay indoors as much as possible and only step out when necessary.

4. Do Not Over-Exercise– Exercise produces lots of heat in the body. Sweating after exercise can also lead to loss of body fluids and salts. So too much exercise should be avoided. Moderation is the key.

Follow these simple steps and you will find yourself energized, healthy and happy in summers too.

                                                                                                                                                                                 —Mrs. Neera Singh

 

About the Author: Mrs. Neera Singh is a trained Nutritionist. She has been advising people on healthy eating and wellness. She is a connoisseur of mindful eating. She believes in the wellness of mind, body and soul.