As temperatures soar in various parts of the globe, it’s crucial to know effective ways to beat the heat and keep your body cool. While many people instinctively reach for a cold shower or a damp towel, research suggests there might be more efficient methods to regulate your body temperature.
Contrary to popular belief, consuming chilled water can be more effective in lowering your core temperature than external cooling methods. However, it’s important to note that rapid cooling can have potential drawbacks.
Many of us instinctively drape a cool cloth over our necks to cool off. However, this common practice may actually hinder the body’s natural cooling process. Recent scientific findings indicate that temperature receptors near the nape of the neck play a significant role in the brain’s thermoregulation efforts. Applying cold to this area might inadvertently signal the brain that the body is sufficiently cool, potentially shutting down other cooling mechanisms and leaving you at risk of overheating.
Instead, consider these two more effective cooling techniques:
1. Hydrate wisely: While drinking cold water is beneficial, it’s important not to consume it too quickly. Gradual sipping allows your body to process the liquid more effectively. To determine your optimal water intake during intense physical activity, you can use a simple calculation: divide your weight in pounds by 30 to find the number of ounces you should consume every quarter-hour of strenuous exercise. It is also important to make sure you’re getting enough electrolytes to beat the heat.
It’s easy to forget that our sweat isn’t just water. Our sweat is a mix of water and salt, so when you’re in a hot climate and sweating more than normal, it is critical that you replace the lost salt. Our tried and true electrolyte brand is LMNT. They have the right mix of sodium, potassium, and magnesium to hydrate your body properly. Catch up with packets of LMNT all summer long. LMNT has given AGEIST readers a special deal: you can get a free 8-count sample pack with any purchase here. Check out their new sparkling electrolyte water!
2. Target cooling zones: Applying cool (not ice-cold) water to your palms or the soles of your feet can expedite the cooling process. These areas, known as glabrous skin, contain specialized blood vessels that are particularly effective at dissipating heat.
By employing these evidence-based cooling strategies, you can maintain a comfortable body temperature more efficiently and beat the heat even in the hottest weather.