COMFORT IN THE HEAT

Southland Times, Issue 23377, 8 December 1937, Page 15

COMFORT IN THE HEAT

PROPER FOOD AND CLOTHING REST AND EXERCISE It is possible for summer discomfort to be caused by the heat. There are days—and nights—when almost anybody would have a right to complain, but so many other things can be contributing causes that they are worthy of consideration (says a statement issued by the Department of Health). Consider our food for instance. If we eat the same things in December that we did in July we are apt to be uncomfortable, no matter what the thermometer says. Food provides growth, energy and heat.

Simple and easily digested foods with • liberal proportions of fresh green vegetables and fruits form the basis of the best summer diet. On the whole the general rule is that animal foods should be more sparingly used in summer and the proportion of vegetable matter in the diet relatively increased. Ice cream and fruit ices are good summer foods if eaten slowly and in moderation. Milk, either as a drink or included in foods, is of value the year round During hot weather much more fluid is needed on account of increased water evaporation from the skin. Consequently water consumption should be adequate during the summer. Perspiration is. nature’s method of cooling us off. The water we drink provides the means with which this apparatus works. Proper clothing is of concern particularly to men; women already know how to dress for comfort. In summer clothing should be diminished rather than food. COMFORT BEFORE STYLE Since the body is automatically cooled by perspiration, this function should be allowed to operate freely. Clothing must be light in weight, well ventilated, and cut to fit comfortably. Thus in warm weather we see the obvious advantages of openings at the neck and wrist that are so characteristic of women’s attire, and the obvious disadvantage to the mere man of his usual cumbersome and almost hermetically sealed clothing. Comfort should come before style. Bathing and cool showers help to reduce weariness and to add to our comfort and energy. Baths are like foods—not always do the cold ones produce the most comfort in hot weather, Sometimes a tepid bath just before retiring is soothing and quieting. When natural ventilation is difficult an electric fan is an effective and inexpensive substitute. The fan does not change the air temperature, but its beneficial results are evident just the same. Air should never be allowed to become stagnant. Homes usually have to depend upon outdoor air for ventilation, and it should be admitted in liberal quantities. Open windows at night are recommended. Excessive heating can often be prevented by keeping rooms properly shaded, and aired during the early morning hours and during the cool spells. During hot weather occasional rest periods are beneficial. Rest can best be secured by sitting in a comfortable chair with arm rests, or lying on a couch or bed at full length, with as much quiet as possible. To avoid excessive fatigue in hot weather it is essential that the proper amount of ' sleep should be secured. Exercise should be suitable to the age, occupation and strength of the individual. Stimulants and narcotics usually make summer heat more difficult. Keeping busy at something interesting goes a long way to make one forget the heat. This is one of the many physical adversities that can be alleviated by the mind.