10 Tips to Help Cope with Fasting in Heat Wave

The Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA) predicted Wednesday that Egypt will experience a heat wave next week, which the see a rise in the temperature and may continue until the middle of next week.

Here are 10 tips to help you fast during a heat wave:

1- Drink plenty of water and fluids during the period after Iftar, even if you do not feel thirsty to make up for the fluids you lost through the day.

2- Keep your body cool by using wet wipes and placing your feet in cold water.

3- Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned buildings or use the air conditioner or fan in your home.

4- Block the sun from the house during the day, by closing the curtains.

5- Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, if you have to go out, wear a hat, use sunscreen, and look for shade.

6- Cancel or postpone unnecessary trips If you have to go out, stay in the shade and wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers such as cotton and linen.

7- Avoid strenuous activities such as sports.

8- Avoid excessive tea and coffee after Iftar. Both drinks contain caffeine and can cause dehydration. If you cannot quit tea and coffee completely, try to reduce the amount you consume.

9 - Avoid spicy and salty foods, as they make you feel more thirsty because salt intake makes it easier to lose water, instead eat fruits and vegetables that contain a high percentage of water such as watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumber, tomatoes, etc.

10- Stay away from foods that contain high sugar content, as it increases your weight. Sugar food gives an immediate increase in energy levels followed by a sudden drop, which may make you hungry as well as increase your feeling of dehydration the next day.