With scorching heat prevailing throughout India, the health ministry has advised people to follow certain proactive measures to protect themselves from heat waves. From drinking abundant water to using oral rehydration solution (ORS), adopting measures to prevent heat-related illnesses is important. One such advisory by the health ministry said that people should reduce their intake of tea, caffeinated and soda drinks during extreme heat. These drinks take a longer time to digest and generate more heat in the body. 

Why To Avoid Tea During Heatwave?

Drinking tea on an empty stomach in summer can irritate the lining of the stomach and cause digestive problems.

It also increases urine flow and may cause dehydration. Due to the diuretic nature of tea, there are higher chances of dehydration after drinking tea in the summer. 

Tea also contains polyphenols such as tannin and caffeine, consuming it in larger quantities can impair the lower body’s ability to absorb nutrients such as iron, vitamins and minerals.  

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Health Advisory For Heatwave

Drink sufficient water whenever possible, even if you are not thirsty. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration. Carry drinking water when travelling 

Use Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), and consume homemade drinks like lemon water, buttermilk/lassi, and fruit juices with some added salt.

Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content like watermelon, muskmelon, orange, grapes, pineapple, cucumber, lettuce or other locally available fruits and vegetables. 

Wear thin loose, cotton garments preferably light coloured.

Cover your head: use an umbrella, hat, cap, towel and other traditional headgear during exposure to direct sunlight.

Block direct sunlight and heat waves: Keep windows and curtains closed during the day, especially on the sunny side of your house. Open them up at night to let cooler air in.

If going outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to cooler times of the day, that is in the morning and evening.

Immersing feet in 20°C water above the ankle provides rapid cooling by reducing dehydration and thermal discomfort.

Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks or drinks with large amounts of sugar- as these actually, lead to loss of more body fluid or may cause stomach cramps.

Schedule strenuous and outdoor jobs to cooler times of the day i.e., morning and evening hours.

Increase the frequency and length of rest breaks for outdoor activities- at least every 5 minutes after 1 hour of labour work.

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(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)