The summer months are a joyful times with plenty of sunshine, this also comes with heatwaves and scorching temperatures that can be dangerous to those who are unprepared. Don’t struggle to stay cool this summer and follow these tips on how to cool down and avoid overheating!
Stay Hydrated
As the temperature rises your body will sweat to cool you down. You will need to drink the amount of water lost and then some in order to stay hydrated. Sports drinks like Gatorade provide you with electrolytes that help avoid muscle cramps from the water loss and also hydrate you! If you’re trying to stay hydrated, avoid alcoholic drinks and beverages that are high in caffeine.
If you aren’t, try out this Margaritaville frozen margarita maker!
Wear Appropriate Clothing
It’s time to pack away your hoodies and sweatpants until the fall. Heavy clothing causes you to sweat more, making you dehydrated and increasing your body temperature. Instead, wear loose fitting clothes that are lighter in color and put on a hat to block out the sunlight.
Eat Lighter Meals
Barbequing is a summer staple that many people enjoy. Mix in some lighter foods with high water content like salads and fruits such as watermelons, strawberry’s, celery, or cucumber to stay cool and hydrated. Looking for a light meal? Try out this delicious mock Chipotle burrito bowl!
Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen doesn’t cool you down directly but the benefits it brings help you avoid burning up. Without the protection of sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), you can avoid sunburns that irritate and heat up the skin. This also protects your skin from the suns harmful UV rays, stops premature aging, and can help prevent skin cancer!
Use Water to Your Advantage
Utilizing water is a surefire way to cool down and have some fun in the process! If you have a pool, go for a swim and let the water lower your body temperature. Go to a waterpark, lake, or set up a slip and slide for some summer fun! Taking a bath or using damp towels can also be used to cool off as your skin will absorb the water and cool you off.
Insulate Your Home
Ensuring that your home is insulated and keeps the cold air inside the home is important heading into the summer. This helps you (and your home) stay at a cool temperature. Have your A/C unit inspected, reseal windows, shut all doors and windows and cover them with blackout curtains to keep the sunlight from coming in. For more tips on how to prepare your home, check out this informative article we wrote!
Know Health Signs
Sometimes the heat is too strong and cooling down is not easily obtainable. With this in mind, it’s important to understand the signs of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, and know how to combat it before it gets out of control. Check out this helpful article we wrote with the signs, dangers, and treatments to heat related illnesses.
Please take these tips into consideration when partaking in summer activities. Remember to be prepared, be smart, and stay cool this summer!
