2022News

Fresh fruits and vegetables, and lots of water is the antidote to summer heat

Summer heat is here and the Ministry of Public Health alerts that people should be drinking lots of water to prevent health conditions. The Ministry of Public Health issued the warning indicating that dehydration can exacerbate health problems, notably blood pressure issues.

The Ministry says that a combination of fruits and vegetables helps keep the body hydrated. The Ministry of Public Health recommends people to keep the refrigerator stocked with tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, celery, lettuce, melons, watermelon, among others.

The Ministry recommends staying away from high-calorie drinks such as sugar-loaded soft drinks, beers and alcoholic beverages. It also tells people to prefer water over caffeinated or very sugary drinks. It recommends avoiding salty or fatty foods. Spicy meals are not recommended in the hot summer months.

For the summer months, light, loose and light-colored clothes are recommended. It is the time to reach for that natural coconut sunscreen, and to stay in cool and ventilated places, to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun’s rays.

“The fruits and vegetables should become the ideal foods for the population, since they allow to quench thirst, hunger and contribute to keep the skin nourished and hydrated. In addition, they help to avoid anger and arguments,” said the institution in an informative note issued on Monday, 6 June 2022 in the morning.

The Ministry points out that, if a person feels dizzy or faint, he/she should lie down in a cool place, under a roof, drink a rehydrating drink, but never hot infusions, nor very sweet ones.

The Ministry also suggests to go to the nearest health center in case of other symptoms of heat, such as: headache, fatigue, intense thirst, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, as well as convulsions and heavy sweating. The government health department reminds says special attention should be paid to keep hydration especially in the case of vulnerable people such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with chronic diseases, and those with some type of disabilities.

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Ministry of Public Health

7 June 2022