With the heat rising in Kolkata, we share tips from the Medical Superintendent of Techno India DAMA Hospital and the Chief Dietician & Critical Care Nutritionist from Techno India DAMA Hospital to stay fit during this season.

Dr MS Purkait, Medical Superintendent, Techno India DAMA Hospital

With the day temperatures set to cross 33°C in Kolkata, the afternoon heat alert has already been issued for the elderly and children. The afternoons are getting high heat and dryness around since the intensity of sun rays is on the ascent. Symptoms of Heat Exposure can be noticed which include – light fever in the evening, dizziness, intense sweating, vomiting, fatigue, and fainting as seen amongst the officegoers, children, and the young generation.  There’s a loss of fluid which results in body heating and triggers uneasiness. 

In the last 2 weeks, more than a dozen patients have reported OPD and have been treated due to heat-induced illness, mostly stomach infections due to a shortage of water in the body and consuming heavy and junk foods. 8 patients were constantly going through half-fainting and breathing distress as they were unable to cope with the rising temperature. The situation can be adverse after the Dol and Holi celebrations as people tend to remain outside under the high heat, covered with synthetic colors, and consume filthy drinks and oily snacks. Post Holi there is always a sharp rise in the cases of Colour Infection and heat allergy which is mostly seen amongst the Children whereas the issue of vomiting and diarrhea amongst the pregnant women is quite common which is very risky.  

For your overall well-being to combat the upcoming more challenging Summer Days 

i. Try to remain and travel under comfortable temperatures and shady zones. 

ii. Importantly, increase the intake of ORS and Glucose water. 

iii. Wear loose, light-colored clothes so that you remain free and your body can breathe. Use a cap or umbrella, and ensure you keep your head protected to avoid head strain. 

iv. Carry cold water and drink regularly. 

v. Since Holi is knocking do avoid heavy alcohols and rely on lighter meals. Do consume fruit. 

vi. Avoid commuting under high heat exposure and keep elderly individuals, expecting mothers, and children indoors. 

vii. For the fitness enthusiast Breathing Blockage is a major issue that can be life-taking during high summer. Avoid strenuous exercise. 

Dr Payel Kumar Roy, Chief Dietician & Critical Care Nutritionist, Techno India DAMA Hospital 

One needs to consume light and easy foods as their daily diet. Such foods and drinks protect against dehydration and help in maintaining optimal levels of energy. 

Eat a lot of fresh fruits, salads, and lightly spiced foods as the fruits and veggies are easy to digest. They bear high water content and help in hydration. Avoid fried and junk foods as they take time to digest and require a lot of water. Spicy foods can also increase body heat. Summers can be incredibly exhausting and can leave one feeling drained out. Nothing is better than refreshing oneself with quick and tasty drinks. Fruit juices like Wonder watermelon, Lemon punch, Cool cucumber, and Masala Jeera. All these may vary in nutritional value but most of them have a variety of health benefits. They contain various antioxidants which help to reduce the risk of certain health issues and vitamins that help the body to function well.

Apart from this, below mentioned are additional steps that can be undertaken as safety measures to combat the adverse impact of the heat wave. 

a. Clean your face with cold water but not constantly. After washing, rub ice on the face. 

b. Apply the sunscreen lotion whenever you are about to get exposed to the scorching heat. This will help in avoiding dark shades on the skin and will also prevent developing allergies from sweat and heat.

c. Must include more Vitamin C and Calcium in the diet.

d. Include more water or fluid to keep the body well hydrated.

e. Light oils such as jojoba oil, lavender oil, Rosehip oil, and grape seed oil can be used since these oils do not have a heavy consistency. They do not clog pores, instead, they hydrate your skin.