Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. While there are countless benefits of spending time outside, there is also the potential for risk when temperatures start to climb. The summer season is notoriously filled with hot and humid weather, so read along to find out how you can stay cool in the heat!

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of ice cold water is crucial for dealing with the summer heat. Sweating is a way for the body to cool down its temperature in order to maintain homeostasis, or a regulated state, so it is important to replenish the liquids that your body is sweating out. Although we recommend drinking water, any liquid is better than no liquid in the summer heat. While drinks like sports drinks can help you stay hydrated while outside in the summer sun, drinking coffee and alcoholic beverages, which are diuretics, can dehydrate your body quicker.

Dress Accordingly

Clothes play an important role in maintaining a decent body temperature and can determine how hot or cool your body gets. Try wearing loose, breathable clothing that will not cause your body to overheat. Also, loose footwear is recommended to avoid excessive sweating. Lighter colored clothing is best opposed to darker, because it will reflect the light from your body. Incorporating hats into your outfit can also provide shade and help avoid sunburn to your head and face. Sunglasses not only look stylish with your outfit, but they also provide protection against harmful UV rays.

Avoid Long Exposure to Sun

The sun is the hottest during the early afternoon, between the hours of 11am to 2pm, which is typically the time people are outside. This is the most common time for sunburns to occur, so make sure you are wearing plenty of sunscreen if you have to be outside. When outside during these hours, we recommend taking breaks by seeking shade or enjoying the air conditioning inside. Long sun exposure can increase your chances of overheating and forming a sunburn.

Eat a Popsicle

What a fun way to cool down! Whether making your own popsicles or enjoying one you’ve purchased, popsicles are a fun and easy way to cool down in the summer heat. There are endless recipes you can make by incorporating different fruits that are delicious for adults and children. This easy tip to cool down will bring you back to your childhood days!

Eat Lighter Summer Fare

Lighter summer meals are a must when out in the hot weather. Avoid cooking hot meals by the stove or grill, which may increase your chances of overheating. Consume smaller meals more frequently and increase snacking to maintain energy while in the heat. The best summer meals are salads, fruits, vegetables and low fat dairy products. These are quick meals and snacks that involve little to no prep time.

Whether attending a picnic, going to the pool, or going for a walk, the summer months are the best time to enjoy the outdoors. Follow these simple tips to stay cool during any outdoor activity!