Get set for summer

Dehydration: Technically, dehydration sets in when a person loses 2 per cent of his body weight. For people with diabetes, the reason for this loss is elevated levels of glucose. As a result, the body pulls out stored fluid from cells to flush out the extra glucose.

How to prevent it: Says Dr Ashutosh Shukla, Consultant, Artemis Health Institute, Gurgaon: “Drink plenty of fluids: on average, at least 12-15 glasses a day. Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol; both contain substances that cause dehydration. Also avoid carbonated beverages as they cause bloating and prevent adequate consumption of fluids.”

Skin disorders: Says Dr Rishi Parashar, Consultant, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi: “During summer, ultra-violet radiation burns through the outer layer of the skin, and this shows up as patches of darkened skin.”

How to prevent them: Experts say the best way to get your skin ready for summer is with regular exfoliation. Says Dr Parashar: “This gets rid of dead, dry skin cells. You can even use sunscreens with SPF 15.”

Food-borne illnesses: At room temperature, bacteria in food can double every 20 minutes. Bacteria also needs moisture to flourish, and summers are often humid.

How to prevent them: Says Dr Shukla: “Throw away fruits and vegetables that have not been refrigerated within one hour of cutting or cooking.” Dressing salad, made with vinegar or lemon juice, has high levels of acidity and salt, which inhibit bacterial growth. “Don’t crosscontaminate— keep meat and poultry apart from cooked foods,” adds Dr Shukla.

— Manu Kaushik