The summers almost here. I have been mentally preparing myself to deal with the sweltering climatic conditions that a good chunk of India has to face every year. Although many of us treat summers like any other season, it is not best idea to do so. After all, our bodies can with stand temperatures in excess of 40 degrees for only so long. The sun, brings with itself a host of issues that could adversely affect the human Body.

So, let us discuss some tips, which would help you keep cool in the coming months.

1. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is the simplest and perhaps the most overlooked thing your body needs to function properly. In hotter weather, you perspire more and thus you need to replenish the water in your body often. The benefits of staying hydrated are endless. It will keep cool down your body faster. It will keep the Skin supple and elastic. It promotes cardio vascular health. I could go on and on.

You don’t need to pricy drinks to stay hydrated. Just regularly sip on some water throughout the day and you are good to go. To switch it up a little, try some coconut water, nimbu pani or some good ol’ fruits, as they are great source of electrolytes.

2. Diet

You might have heard that the food you consume, is fuel for your body. The healthier things you put in there, the more efficiently your body will run. In summers, it is necessary to be cognizant of this fact, especially if you are going to be spending a day out in the sun.

Indian diets consist of a lot of carbohydrates like rice and breads and oily street foods samosas, kachoris etc. It is a better idea to reduce the consumption of these processed foods and increase your intake of fruits. Watermelon, amla, tomatoes and cherries are some good options to help you deal with the heat. Non vegetarians can substitute red meat with fish. Avoid alcoholic or carbonated beverages, as they lead to loss of fluids through urine.

3.Wear Sunscreen

Many people seem to think that you only need sunscreen when you’re at the beach or at the pool. However, they fail to realise that the sun is the greatest enemy their skin can have.

Sunscreen doesn’t let the harmful UV rays from the sun damage your skin as much as they generally would. Since UV rays trigger harmful changes in your skin that cause skin cancer, it is imperative to put sunscreen on whenever you go out. In addition to this, sun rays also cause premature ageing of the skin making it look dull and wrinkled.

4. Exercise

Regular Exercise is perhaps the best way to help with many of the problems, both physical and mental, that an urban man has to face. Adults that exercise for more than 150 minutes a week, have reduced risk of coronary heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, colon cancer. Exercise also helps with depression, anxiety, self-esteem and boosts your mood.

Thus, if you are looking for a sure shot way to improve your life, you should try to exercise for at least 20 minutes every day. Exercising doesn’t mean going to gym but can also consist of brisk walking, cycling, yoga or even martial arts. Pick an activity that you find interesting and stick with it to form a routine.