It’s officially summertime and the weather sure is flaunting it! On the first day of the season we hit a high point already in our area. And while I have air conditioning at home and our workplace (a true indulgence, I admit), sometimes I can’t avoid the heat either. In addition to the reliable tactics of using ceiling fans for air circulation, staying downstairs in the dark during the hottest part of the day, and bathing in cool water, here are some tips to survive a possible scorching ahead…

1. For a homemade “air conditioning” system, sit in the path of a box fan that is aimed at an open cooler, or pan filled with ice.
2. Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine, as both of these substances can act as diuretics and promote dehydration.
3. Remember to maintain an adequate level of hydration, which means you’ll need to consume more water than you usually do when it’s hot. If you’re sweating profusely, you will also need to replace electrolytes by eating a small amount of food with your water or by drinking specially-formulated electrolyte replacement drinks. (We love Shaklee Performance!)
4. Eliminate extra sources of heat. Incandescent light bulbs can generate unnecessary heat, as can computers or appliances left running. Eat fresh foods that do not require you to use the oven or stove to prepare.
5. Don’t eat large, protein-rich meals that can increase metabolic heat and warm the body.

It’s also important to know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses like cramps, rashes, exhaustion, and stroke so you can get help for yourself or help someone else.

Enjoy your summer but stay cool too.

-Summer (and irony, I don’t even like warm weather!)