It isn’t a secret that during the summer most children and teens want to be outside. The sun is the body’s main source of vitamin D, which helps to absorb the calcium that bones need. However, it does not take long to get the amount of vitamin D we need. As we get deeper into the summer months, the sun’s heat becomes less fun and kids are at risk for dangerous heat-related illnesses. Typical heat-related illnesses are dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heatstroke is the most extreme and life-threatening heat-related illness. The body loses its ability to regulate temperature and can reach temperatures as high as 106 Fahrenheit and beyond, which could lead to brain damage or death. Avoid heatstroke and its side effects by seeking medical attention when a child becomes "disoriented, dizzy, nauseous, cold, clammy or has cramps," according to Drew Ferguson, the director of Sports Medicine at Children’s of Alabama. Ferguson said the best way to beat the heat this summer is to ensure that children are, "well-hydrated prior to the event, hydrate during the event and after the event." He suggested avoiding drinks high in fructose, because they are prone to make children nauseous. Kids should be constantly drinking water because nothing has the ability to replenish thirst like water.
Help your kids beat the heat this summer with these tips:
Teach kids to always drink plenty of fluids before and during an activity in hot,
sunny weather — even if they're not thirsty.
Make sure kids wear light-colored, loose clothing.
Make sure your kids only participate in heavy activity outdoors before noon and
after 6 p.m.
Teach kids to come indoors immediately whenever they feel overheated.
For more information about keeping your kids cool and avoiding heat-related
illnesses, visit www.childrensal.org.
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