What to eat to stay cool amid fierce heatwaves: NHS doctor reveals details
As the temperatures soar and heatwaves grip the UK, finding effective methods to stay cool becomes crucial. While traditional tips like using fans or changing bedding have their merits, there are some unconventional food hacks that might surprise you. NHS Surgeon and lecturer, Dr. Karan Raj, shared three unusual but effective ways to beat the heat back in 2022, and they are making a resurgence with the recent blistering temperatures. This is reported by SSP.
One surprising hack suggested by Dr. Raj is to eat spicy food. He explains that the compound capsaicin, found in spicy food, binds to heat receptors in the body, increasing internal temperature, and promoting blood circulation and sweating. As sweat evaporates, it effectively cools down the body. So, adding some spice to your meals can actually provide a cooling effect during summer heatwaves.
Another recommended food hack is to consume mint, whether in the form of spearmints or mint tea. Dr. Raj explains that menthol, a compound in mint, binds to a protein in the body that is sensitive to cold, tricking the brain into perceiving a cold sensation. Therefore, incorporating mint into your diet can create the illusion of feeling cool, offering relief during hot weather.
Apart from food-related tips, Dr. Raj suggests "going for green." Interestingly, plants not only provide shade but also act as natural air conditioners. They take in moisture from the soil and release it through their leaves, effectively cooling the surrounding area. So, spending time in green spaces or creating shade with the help of plants can significantly decrease the ambient temperature.
Dr. Raj's unique and effective cooling hacks have garnered praise from viewers online. Some even joked about combining the spicy and minty suggestions by eating spicy mints in a forest! Users expressed regret for not coming across these tips earlier and shared their excitement to give them a try. It seems that these unconventional food hacks may offer a refreshing solution during sweltering heatwaves.