The official start to the summer kicked off just a few weeks ago but this blistering hot summer started months ago for those living in Toronto.  Today the Temperature is approximately 34 C, for historians, that’s the hottest July 5th in Toronto in nearly twenty years. While we all welcome the warm summer temperatures, there are plenty of Heat-related illnesses that occur during this time of the year due to Extreme Heat. The city has issued a heat warning, meaning that throughout the city, there are numerous cooling centres. These cooling centres, often community centres, are air-conditioned environments which offer a place to cool down and hydrate. For those of you stuck without air conditioning and cannot visit a cooling centre, we present five immediate ways to cool down.

Avoid Protein

While chicken noodle soup may be the ideal dish for the winter, you may want to avoid it during a heat wave. In order to lower your body temperature, it’s best to eat things which are cool. Avoid eating soup and start eating salads. You should also be aware that protein may increase your metabolic heat, causing your body to increase in temperature. On days like today, skip the steak for light, cool meals.

Power Off

It may not feel like it, but electronics and appliances increase the temperature in your home. Unless it’s absolutely necessary, you may want to turn off the laptop, tv, and any appliances that generate heat. Try to avoid using the stove or oven because that will also raise the room temperature, which will inevitably raise your body temperature.

Skip the Coffee

If you need to have multiple cups per coffee per day, you may want to skip it during days of Extreme heat. Coffee acts as a diuretic, meaning it will cause you to urinate more frequently. As a result of this, it promotes dehydration, which is not what you need during a heat wave. You may be thinking that a cold beer may feel like a better choice but it has the same effect as coffee. Avoid drinks that promote dehydration and go for plenty of electrolytes instead.

Pace Yourself

According to the CDC, each year approximately 675 people die in the United States as a result of a heat-related illness. Extreme heat should be viewed in the same light as extreme cold. You probably wouldn’t run a marathon in -35 C temperatures, therefore you shouldn’t run one in 35 C temperatures. If you choose to be physically active during the extreme heat then you should pace yourself and remember to constantly rehydrate.

Block The Sun

Researchers estimate that blocking out the sun could lower the room temperature by 5-10 degrees. While the sun is a welcoming sight every day of the year, on extremely hot days, it will raise your body temperature. Even if you’re indoors, sunlight can indeed raise your temperature. Make sure to use blinds throughout the day or find ways to block the sun from shining directly into your home.

If you would like to find out more tips on how to Stay Cool or if you would like to work on your health and fitness, please visit a HealthMax Physiotherapy Clinic near you or call (416) 431-4000. Remember, consultations are free!

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