As several parts of India continue to experience intense summer heat, the Ministry of AYUSH and the Director General of Health Services have issued a public advisory urging people to take preventive measures against heatstroke and dehydration.
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, fainting, and even life-threatening heatstroke if ignored.
Traditional cooling beverages recommended
The advisory highlights several traditional Indian summer beverages known for their cooling and hydrating properties. People are advised to stay hydrated throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty.
Recommended beverages include buttermilk, lassi, coconut water, lemon water, sattu drink, aam panna, bael sharbat, nannari paanagam, and gooseberry buttermilk.
According to the ministry, these beverages help replenish electrolytes, cool the body naturally, and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Seasonal fruits and vegetables encouraged
The advisory also recommends consuming seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content.
Foods such as watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, grapes, tender coconut flesh, ash gourd, tomatoes, and lettuce are considered beneficial during extreme heat conditions.
Experts say these foods help maintain hydration levels while providing essential nutrients and minerals.
Foods and habits to avoid
The ministry has advised people to avoid alcohol, excess tea and coffee, sugary soft drinks, oily foods, and heavy high-protein meals during peak summer afternoons.
Doctors warn that such foods can increase body heat, worsen dehydration, and trigger stomach discomfort or fatigue.
People are also encouraged to avoid direct sun exposure during afternoon hours, wear light cotton clothing, and rest adequately.
Heatstroke symptoms should not be ignored
Health officials caution that symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, rapid heartbeat, dark-coloured urine, seizures, and unconsciousness may indicate severe heat-related illness and require immediate medical attention.
The advisory underlines the importance of combining modern health awareness with traditional Indian dietary practices to stay safe during the ongoing heatwave season