Dog Days of Summer
It’s hard to believe that we are already into August. Along with August come those “Dog Days” that are filled with sultry heat, humidity, and along with it, depleted energy particularly in the early afternoon (we’re forecasted here in southeastern NC for 96 degree heat with a heat index around 110 today!). But before we talk about what to do in order to thrive during the Dog Days, let’s have a little lesson in history. Consider it this month’s little tidbit. Did you ever wonder where the term “Dog Days of Summer” originates? Well, the term “Dog Days” was used by the ancient Greeks, as well as, the Romans who called these days caniculares dies or, days of the dogs after Sirius. Sirius is the “Dog Star” or the brightest star in the heavens besides the Sun and was most visible during the late summer months in the Northern Hemisphere. Sirius, the dog star, was thought to be angry and raging, therefore generating the hot, sultry weather. Some of the more primitive groups even sacrificed brown dogs in hopes that Sirius would calm down and give more moderate weather.
History as it is and no matter the reasons for the heat and humidity, the impact on the human body can be draining and even fatal if not managed properly. This article provides a few SimpleSolutions4 maintaining your cool and best health during these hot days of summer.
Tip #1: Stay hydrated. Obviously this should go without saying, but make sure to drink plenty of fluids. The body is made up of approximately 75% water and is constantly balancing intake/output of fluids. Output of body water occurs primarily through either urination or sweating (although there are other exits as well) and when the heat kicks up the body’s temperature gauge kicks in to cool the systems, i.e., starts to sweat. In these dog days of summer the body needs a constant replenishment of water in order to function properly. When we begin to dehydrate our bodies and our brains simply do not function as efficiently. When not functioning efficiently, symptoms may range from the obvious increase in thirst and decreased urine output, to a diminution of mental faculties including confusion, lethargy and difficulties concentrating. It is also important to drink fluids that will replenish electrolytes. Gatorade and Powerade are two popular drinks that replenish electrolytes. A daily multivitamin containing potassium, such as found in Biometic’s flagship product BioFuel is also recommended.
Tip #2: Wear appropriate clothing. I know that most feel that the-less-the-better when the temperatures soar, however, this may not necessarily be the best approach. When I was growing up in the farm country of Kentucky the older farmers used to wear long sleeve, denim shirts. I always thought this was near crazy and reflected the thought process of their time and generation whereby modesty was prized. One day I was corrected on my assumptions when an older gentleman set me straight: “it keeps you cooler”. He went on to say that as he would sweat the moisture would be absorbed into the fabric and then act as a wet towel to cool him off particularly if he sat in the shade periodically. While I still believe this was somewhat the fashion of the day for the rural farmer, there is some truth to the fact that if you have to work or be outside in the extreme heat, getting next to naked may not be the best approach. Most physicians recommend lightweight clothing and try to avoid prolonged periods of time in the direct heat.
Tip #3. Up your B-Vitamin intake. B-Vitamins are critical in so many ways in the human body. There are two specific functions of B-Vitamins to keep in mind during the Dog Days:
1st. Fatigue. The heat has a way of sapping energy from our systems and generating a sense of physical and mental lethargy. B-Vitamins are involved with rejuvenating the “power packs” of the cells and providing more energy to the body. In the brain, B-vitamins and an amino acid called Tyrosine, increasing energy, mental acuity and alertness. The product that I find extremely helpful during those afternoon mental slumps is a product called Get-Go-N. This B-Vitamin product also contains Tyrosine that gives you that perfect mental and physical pick-me-up that is needed in the early afternoon.
2nd. Stress. B-Vitamins are involved in the body’s stress responses in a major way and are easily depleted when the systems are taxed such as in extreme heat. The result is mental and physical lethargy, loss of concentration, lots of yawning and sleepiness. Eating plenty of green leafy vegetables will help but is probably not sufficient without supplementation. Again, I strong recommend the Get-Go-N as a protection against depleted B-vitamins in your system. I suggest that taking the Get-Go-N in the morning and then again in the early afternoon.
Tip #4. Play! Along with the Dog Days heat comes the tendency for people to get irritable and grumpy. One of the best ways to fight the cranky moods is to play! Do something fun with the family even if its running through a yard sprinkler or having a water balloon fight. …and don’t forget the camera! You’ll build some wonderful memories with your kids and family that you can look back on for years to come!
I hope everyone has a great time during these Dog Days of summer. Stay safe and healthy. Enjoy the season. Don’t forgot to check out our website at www.simplesolutions4.com to find simple solutions for living well including the world’s premier nutritional supplements!
Warmly,
Dr. Russell Thomas
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