Keeping Cool in the Hot Weather Months

Arizona is known for its extreme heat, particularly in the southern area of the state. While heat exhaustion and heat stroke are certainly something to be watchful of, most people are more trouble by the discomfort of the heat. There are things you can do to keep yourself cool during the warmest days. We’ll highlight a few you might like to try.

Remain Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water is key for keeping cool in Arizona’s hot weather. It will help keep your body cool and all of your tissues properly hydrated. You should be drinking water even when you are not feeling thirsty. Some people mark their water bottles to keep track of how many they drink per day. Try to avoid sodas and sugary drinks, as well as coffee and alcohol , which are naturally diuretic in nature.

Consume Cooling Foods – The right foods can keep you cool, so make choices like vegetables, fruit, salads and fresh raw foods. They have a high water content which will contribute to the hydration we mentioned above. Making a conscious effort to eat smaller meals, more often, may also be able to keep your core temperature down a bit. The larger the meal is, the harder your body will have to work on breaking it all down, thus raising your body temperature.

Plan Your Time In The Sun – Try to avoid taking on outdoor activities while the mid-day sun is at its peak. Try to limit sun exposure in between 10am and 4pm during the warmer months. If you have to be outside at this time, you should limit exposure as much as possible. The elderly, children and anyone who may have sensitive skin should think about limiting time in the sun and staying in a cooler area.

In addition to these tips, it is best to know your body and pay attention to any of the signs of heat exhaustion or overheating. Wear light, protective clothing and it cannot be stressed enough that you need to be able to drink plenty of fluids to keep your body happy, healthy and cool.