What we know versus what is actually right—let's outwit the heat with some logic!
Indian summers can be brutal, right? With the scorching heat comes a barrage of advice on what to eat, drink, wear, and do to beat the heat. As kids, we'd just nod along and follow these age-old beliefs without really understanding the reasoning behind them. But hey, maybe it's time we take a closer look at some of these practices and figure out if they're worth sticking to, right? Let's dive in and separate the myths from the truth!
Indulging in naturally cooling treats like coconut, watermelon, curd, and chia seeds is a fantastic way to beat the summer heat. But downing icy drinks or munching on chilled snacks might not be as refreshing as you think. Turns out, they can mess with your digestion and stir up some gut trouble. Our bodies aren't big fans of sudden cold shocks, especially when it comes to our delicate tummies. So, while those cold sips and bites may seem tempting, they could leave you feeling not-so-fresh, bringing along digestive woes, fatigue, and even sinus issues.
According to an article in the British Medical Journal, even doctors sometimes believe this myth! Researchers found no medical evidence supporting the recommendation to drink 6–8 glasses of water a day. Experts suggest letting your thirst guide you, especially as temperatures rise. Watch out for signs of dehydration like thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, or fatigue. While plain water is best when thirsty, any liquid counts for hydration—juice, milk, fruit, or even caffeinated drinks. So go ahead and enjoy that iced coffee, but remember, as mentioned earlier, don't overdo it with chilled drinks to avoid shocking your tummy!
This is indeed a misguided attempt to tarnish the reputation of the king! Mangoes reign supreme as the most beloved seasonal summer fruit in India. While some may perceive mangoes as heavy or fattening, it's essential to note that an average mango contains only half the calories of a single piece of cake! Packed with immunity-boosting nutrients and fibre, mangoes offer numerous health benefits. However, due to their high sugar content, individuals with diabetes or high blood sugar should consume mangoes in moderation. But as they say, moderation is key! Unless you're devouring 10 mangoes a day during the summer, there's no reason to avoid indulging in the king of fruits, which graces us with its presence for a brief period each summer!
When it comes to sunscreen, more isn't always better. While SPF 15 to 30 offers good protection, anything above SPF 50 doesn't add much value. Dermatologists suggest sticking to SPF 30 to 50, as they block 97% to 99% of UVB rays. High SPF products can give a false sense of security and may not be applied generously enough. Opt for a broad-spectrum formula with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to shield against UVA and UVB rays. And remember, in our humid summer weather, you don't need as much sunscreen as influencers from cooler climates might suggest. So, apply the right amount for effective protection without sweating it all off!
Navigating the Indian summer feels like a battle against the elements! After braving the scorching heat and suffocating humidity, we're all tempted to plunge into the fridge for some instant relief! But little do we know, those ice-cold drinks and chilled juices might do more harm than good, and slathering on sunscreen can sometimes feel like a lost cause as we end up sweating it all off. So, it's important to uncover the truth to conquer the summer and emerge victorious!
