4 ways to beat the heat, according to science

Heat wave It’s a steamer out there! by Jennifer Walter July 1, 2021 Jenni Sparks via Giphy

Giphy April showers bring May flowers. May flowers bring ... June heatwaves?

That’s how it seems this year, with record-breaking temperatures driven by climate change already hitting several areas of the world during just the first few weeks of summer.

Shutterstock Extreme temperatures can spell heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and in some cases, death.

Here are 4 ways to keep yourself cool, according to science: Shutterstock

4. Pour some water on it Cold showers, damp towels, and ice baths can do the trick. Maudit via Giphy

Shutterstock Putting water on your skin can help lower your body’s core temperature. This is especially important to keep your organs from overheating.

Neon via Giphy It also helps explain why the pool feels so good on a hot day.

3. Sweat it out! You can’t beat the body’s natural cooling system. LaylaBird/E+/Getty Images

Shutterstock Sweating is a very effective method for cooling the body down. But when the hot weather is also humid , it’s harder for water to evaporate from your skin, causing you to feel sweaty and sticky.

Shutterstock A dehumidifier can help bring down humidity levels indoors. The temperature might not change, but you’ll probably still feel cooler.

2. Hyrdrate, Hydrate, Hydrate How are you gonna sweat if you’re not full of water? Giphy

Helmut Hess/Moment/Getty Images Seriously, though. Staying hydrated is incredibly important to ensure that your body can handle the heat.

Shutterstock If you’re parched , your body struggles to regulate its internal temperature, which can send you into heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

1. Lay low If you have the option, it’s best to chill out on a hot day. JustViral via Giphy

Shutterstock Strenuous activity, including workouts, can be deadly in hot weather.

Shutterstock Relaxing outside in the shade or indoors is the best way to pass a hot day.

Slothilda via Giphy And if you have to be outside, pace yourself. Listen to your body, and make sure you stay hydrated and take breaks when possible.

Here’s to staying cool — or at least, less hot — all summer long. Team Coco via Giphy

What’s the hottest temperature the human body can withstand? Click here to find out.

4 ways to beat the heat, according to science

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