April 20, 2022, Dos and Don’ts during the Indian summer..

This write-up is contributed by Mr. Sugato Roy.

Dos and Don’ts during the Indian summer..

The days of sultry weather, the muggy atmosphere and the oppressive heat are back after the usual annual gap.  The sweltering and iniquitous Indian summer is right here with a bang. As the day advances, the mercury level soars and almost reaches its peak at noon when the blazing sun is right on top of our heads. People are reeling under the onslaughts of heat and clamminess. The plants have become dull and their teases droop during the day. The streets are already becoming less crowded and people are eagerly looking forward to an impending squall which the media houses and portals are reporting daily. And mind you this is only the third week of April with predictions of more roasting days ahead. The media is flooded with advertisement campaigns for ACs, air coolers and all types of electric fans trying to woo the potential buyers with all sorts of lucrative consumer schemes. Billboards making the public hanker for aerated soft drinks are there almost everywhere.  

Amidst all these, the bottom line is to keep oneself healthy and stress-free for a better lifestyle transformation during this gruelling heat.

Let us share some simple Dos and Don’ts to prevent certain common ailments during this summer season so that people even if they are parched remain in robust good health to face the onslaught of heat.

Children — Children are more susceptible to heat-related ailments. Problems like a sudden increase in temperature, frequent changes in temperature,  and Fahrenheit variations in school and outside coupled with day and night temperatures are some of the primary reasons for them to fall sick. The school authorities should ensure that the morning prayer assemblies be of shorter duration so that the children are exposed to the heat for a considerably lesser time.  During recess, they should not be allowed to play outside on empty stomach. While going back home after the school break, parents should make sure that their wards use either umbrellas or sunscreen to avoid direct exposure to the sunshine and heat. They should be given light foods and refreshments with fruits like watermelon, musk melon, papaya, lime, plums, mango, pineapple,  banana, cucumber, yoghurt etc.  Having onions is also very beneficial. Spurning street and junk foods along with spicy foods are a must during summer. Under no circumstances the sliced fruits found on roadside stalls should be given to the kids.    The fact that lemons are much dearer this season is because of their higher demand and abysmal supplies. Adequate intake of water is also very necessary but not straight from the refrigerator.  

Remember,  avoiding dehydration during summer is of supreme importance.  

Adults — For senior citizens, avoiding the outdoors during the daytime, direct sun rays, crowded modes of transportation, bazaars, strenuous physical activities, and avoiding junk and spicy food are the most important Do s. For college and university students as well as corporate executives, wearing loose, full sleeves, light coloured clothing is quite helpful. One can use sunglasses too to avoid the glare of sunshine while on roads or travelling. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day unless and until your physician advises you otherwise. Taking ORS liquid or lemon acts as a great energiser.  Having fluid even if you are not thirsty is very good in the long run during summer.  Salads with lots of leafy lettuce and cucumber are the most preferred food for a health-conscious man during this time. All types of melons, onions, papaya, lemon, mangoes, and other citrus and juicy fruits are excellent choices. These fruits have a cooling effect on your body. Avoiding cut fruits during tiffin breaks found on the roadside stalls is a must, come what may. 

Unless one suffers from blood pressure problems, restricted salt intake can be done as per the doctor’s advice. Avoiding beverages like tea and coffee as well as alcohol is vital.

Use sunglasses and sunscreens to avoid skin allergies, irritation and rashes. 

Remember the essence of this communication is all should remain fit and healthy during this hot, sticky and stifling heat. The pandemic has taught us that health is our truest wealth. You must remain healthy for a better and richer tomorrow.

Mr. Sugato Roy

GRADUATE FROM ST XAVIER’S COLLEGE AND POST GRADUATE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CALCUTTA, SPECIALIZING IN MARKETING MANAGEMENT AND ADVERTISING MANAGEMENT.  PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE OF 24 YEARS IN VARIOUS CAPACITIES IN ADVERTISING AND PUBLISHING INDUSTRY.  HAS BEEN AWARDED FOR  LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT IN ADVERTISING AND PUBLICITY MANAGEMENT.

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