Heat waves are bringing temperatures up at night, making it harder for the body to cool down, which can often disrupt sleep. Many people are drinking more water to avoid dehydration, but certain foods can also help cool the body by reducing those annoying bathroom trips.

Maryanne Taylor, a sleep consultant and founder of The Sleep Works, explained that light and temperature are two of the main factors that affect sleep during the heat. While drinking water is key to staying hydrated, more fluids can also mean more frequent bathroom trips.

To avoid this, Taylor recommends increasing fluid intake throughout the day and decreasing fluid consumption an hour or two before bed. For those who want to cut back on evening drinks, she suggests eating foods that are high in water. “Getting fluids through your diet can also help you stay hydrated without making too many trips to the bathroom,” she told Yours magazine. “Eating cucumbers, watermelon and celery, which are all extremely high in water, will help.”

A cucumber, for example, is about 95 percent water, meaning it contributes directly to your overall fluid intake. It also contains moderate amounts of potassium and magnesium, which help regulate fluids inside and outside your cells. Watermelon has also been shown to be beneficial during a heat wave due to its high water content, natural sugars and nutrients that aid in hydration and recovery.

Since it is mostly water and easily digested, it can be especially refreshing in hot weather. Like cucumber, celery is about 95 percent water, making it another great option for hydration during a heat wave, reports Klankosova.tv.

On the other hand, there are some foods and drinks that are best avoided during extreme heat, advises Phil Beard, a nutritionist at Viridian Nutrition.

While an iced drink may seem like the ideal way to cool off, Beard warns that it can cause discomfort. in the stomach. “Instead, choose water-rich foods like watermelon and cucumbers, and drink plenty of water, coconut water or herbal teas,” he points out. “Choosing light and refreshing foods helps your body stay balanced in extreme heat.”

While ice cream is a favorite summer treat for many, Dr. Selph’s Alasdair Scott says it can actually make your body feel hotter. “Ice cream is generally high in fat, protein and carbohydrates, and the body heats up as it digests these foods,” he explains. He explains that while ice cream provides an immediate cooling sensation, the body quickly starts producing heat again during digestion.

Source: prizrenpost