On a hot day like today… people lose electrolytes. In each drop of sweat, a person can be deprived of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and H2O from their body. The recommended six to eight (6-8) glasses of water should be sufficient to replenish the loss… right?…..If only it were so simple!
The summer months can be hot and annoying due to the rising temperatures; in addition, everybody needs to consume more fluids in order to keep cool and prevent dehydration. When people drink water and fluids such as sports drinks, which contain 6% or less carbohydrate solutions, they empty their bodies quicker than foods and juices with a higher carbohydrate concentration. This allows the electrolytes and water to reach the heart and other organs in a shorter time, rehydrating more quickly but also sending a tinkle more frequently.
In the Caribbean and other tropical regions, many people take for granted and tolerate the heat because it’s all year round; however in the summer months, temperatures rise above normal and it’s even hotter than usual. As a result, it is normally recommended that individuals who fall in the ‘at risk category’ such as the elderly, children, athletes, outdoor workers and the sick, along with pets are kept in favourable conditions. Between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. they should try their best to stay away from direct sunlight, as the UV rays are most harmful at this time. Experts at the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommend using a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30+, with reapplication every two hours or sooner, especially after swimming and sweating. If you are outdoors, seek shade, wear protective clothing, inclusive of a wide brimmed hat and UV – blocking sunglasses.
To continue reading , purchase Vol. 8 #1 2015 issue