I don’t know about where you live, but here in Florida it’s been super hot. You can definitely tell that we are heading into summer.
As with many parts of the country and the world, summer is around the corner. And that’s why I thought it was time to bring up an important topic — heat and its effect on health.
And I’m not just referring to athletes and heatstroke.
You see, my fiance, who is diabetic, enjoys golfing. But many times after golf, despite eating healthy, his blood-sugar levels increase.
Curious to find out why he started doing some research and found out diabetics dehydrate quicker than others in high heat. Being dehydrated then raises blood glucose, which causes an increase in urination and more dehydration.
It’s a vicious cycle.
But it’s not just diabetics that need to be careful with the heat. Most people should be careful in high temperatures.
Who should be extra careful of heat, humidity and dehydration because they become overheated quicker?
- Anyone with respiratory disease
- Anyone with cardiovascular disease
- Anyone with renal disease
- Anyone with a mental disorder
- Anyone with a chronic illness
- Infants and children (under 4)
- Adults over 65
- Anyone on medication (check with your pharmacist or doctor as many medications can cause the body to feel hot and produce excessive sweating)
- Anyone who sweats a lot
- Anyone overweight or obese
Signs you are overheating or dehydrated:
- Sweating profusely
- Feeling sick or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- Heat rash
- Intense thirst
- Headache
- Tired and weak
- Fast pulse
- Dark urine
- Muscle cramps
How to keep your body cool and keep from being dehydrated:
- Drink plenty of water, fruit juice or sports drinks even if you are not thirsty
- Take cool showers or baths
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks
- Eat hydrating foods like fruits, vegetables and broths
- Keep environment air cool
- Wear light clothing
Preventing heat exhaustion, heatstroke and dehydration is very important as the complications can be serious, or even fatal.
As seen in the case with my fiance — just a small amount of dehydration or an increase of heat and humidity can have some serious health implications.
I believe everyone can be at risk at any time so it’s important to keep cool and hydrated… always.
One last tip … most people wake up dehydrated. So to start the day on the right foot have a glass of water upon awakening (before coffee).
For a healthier you!
Sandy
