Dry and hot best describes our summer so far and I’m sure most of you have had enough of this recent heat wave. I doubt any of us are looking forward to the next BGE bill. I wish I could offer you some advice about how to save money on cooling this summer, but unfortunately that is not my area of expertise. I do know a few ways to help you avoid any health related conditions brought on by excessive summer heat.

Heat stroke is more common when the temperatures rise above 100 degrees and beyond drinking plenty of water, there are other ways to reduce your risk of heat stroke:

1. Much like avoiding sunburn, it is best to engage in outdoor activity between 6am and 10am or after 3pm

2. Eating watermelon can combat the effects of heatstroke. Of course the high water content helps, but there are also compounds in watermelon that help lower the body’s temperature.

3. Generally eating raw foods such as salads, lightly cooked vegetables and plenty of fresh fruit is ideal in the height of summer. These foods have a “cooling” effect on the body from a Chinese medicine perspective.

4. Eating foods high in omega 3 and 6 oils will also help protect you from sun exposure. Sunscreen is essential, but foods rich in these oils also help to improve and protect the skin.

If you feel symptoms of heat exhaustion such as dizziness, fatigue, nausea, headaches or muscle cramps, these are early signs that can lead to heat stroke. Get yourself indoors and immediately begin to cool your core body temperature. Drink plenty of cold water. Apply cold compresses to your neck and forehead. If your symptoms persist it is advisable to take a cold bath. if any of these symptoms are severe and your body temperature rises above 101-102 degrees I would head to an ER immediately.