Make sure to drink lots of water, wear a hat, wear loose, lightweight clothing and take electrolytes, if you are going to be out in the hot weather. Especially, if you are going to be physically active, such as exercising or doing yard work.
We lose salt and potassium in our sweat and these need to be replaced or we can suffer muscle cramps, heat exhaustion and if severe, heat stroke. Some of the symptoms of electrolyte depletion and heat exhaustion are:
- Heavy sweating
- Paleness
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
Too much water only is not good, as it will not replenish the electrolytes. There are lots of products and sports drinks to replenish the minerals lost in sweating. Avoid sugary ones.
Try mixing 4 cups ice tea with 4 cups apple juice and the juice of 1 orange, add a sliced orange and ice to this and you have a homemade electrolyte replacement!
