Have you ever noticed how you feel much more fatigued during the summer months? Factors such as higher temperatures, drier air, longer daytime hours, and reduced hydration all have a big impact on how tired we feel. The good news is that there are some easy things you can do to help you feel at your best and ready to enjoy the sun. Here are our top five tips for reducing the dreaded fatigue in summer.
- Hydration. Staying properly hydrated is important at all times of the year, but this is especially so during the summer. You can thank your increased levels of perspiration for this,which means that you lose more of your body’s water stores. Even a small reduction in your normal water levels can lead to poor mental performance, concentration, and fatigue.
Always make sure to drink enough water throughout the day, which means eight 8-ounce glasses or about two liters. Also make sure to drink the right kind of liquids. Caffeine, sugar, and alcohol-heavy drinks can have a diuretic impact on the body, so top up with extra water to counteract this.
- Exercise and Sleep. Although it seems at odds with retaining your body’s water level, it’s actually true that the more you exercise the better you become at losing less perspiration. This is because your body becomes used to its own temperature changes when you exercise, so you will become less hot when your outside environment heats up. Exercise is also great for improving sleep, which is essential for your body to recover and rejuvenate from the hotter weather.
- Temperature. This one may seem obvious, but reducing your body’s temperature is a great way to give yourself a boost. Stick to loose clothing made from natural fibers and try not to wear too many layers. Lighter colors will reflect more sunlight so should keep you cooler.
It may be tempting to run the air conditioning all night and day, but in doing so you risk drying out the air too much. This can lead to hydration issues, headaches, and tiredness. It’s fine to use air conditioning in short bursts or during the daytime, but constant AC use can impact your sleep if left on all night.
- Extra Help. If you need a little extra something to keep you on track, try a supplement to boost your brain power. Nootropics are substances found naturally in plant or herbal products. They can be great for promoting alertness, memory, and concentration, and can be used in conjunction with caffeine without any of the shaky side effects. For example, L-theanine is an ingredient found in green tea that has a great calming effect on the brain, meaning you can carry on with your day without the heat affecting you.
- Nutrition. Eating regular healthy meals through the day is the best way to stave off fatigue. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those with a high water content. Seasonal produce like melons, cucumbers, and tomatoes are all perfect for summer nutrition.
Conclusion. If you suffer from fatigue in summer, it doesn’t mean that you have to hide indoors all season. There are plenty of ways you can prepare your body and mind so that you can get out and enjoy everything that the sunshine brings!
