Staying Healthy During Dry Seasons: Expert Advice
Dry seasons, like the harmattan in some parts of the world, present unique health challenges. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet are crucial for mitigating these risks, according to wellness consultant Dr. Kelvin Owusu. His recent interview on Channel One TV highlighted key strategies for staying healthy during these periods.
Dr. Owusu emphasized the importance of increased water intake. “So, you should be drinking as much water as you can.I mean, at least three liters of water. But if you work outdoors, you probably need a lot more water because you are being exposed to the sun more than the rest of us who are indoors,” he explained. He noted a common misconception: “But the interesting thing is that during harmattan, you don’t get thirsty. So, a lot of people are actually drinking less. But we need to be conscious and try to drink as much water as possible. One of the tricks is actually to carry a bottle to work or wherever you’re going so that it prompts you to drink the water in there.”
Beyond hydration, dr. Owusu cautioned against excessive alcohol consumption. “So, beer is not a substitute for water. And this is why beer or alcohol is a diuretic. So, alcohol will actually make you lose water, you know, so when you drink alcohol, you tend to urinate more. Alcohol can dehydrate the body further, worsening the effects of harmattan,” he warned. This advice resonates with U.S. audiences who face similar dehydration risks during hot summer months.
A balanced diet plays a vital role in boosting immunity, particularly during periods when respiratory illnesses are more common. Dr. Owusu stressed the importance of fruits and vegetables: ”Fruits and vegetables are very notable as most of our diet doesn’t incorporate a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. So, we go in and eat our banku and okra kitchen with hot pepper, which is usually all cooked. The thing about vegetables is that when you apply heat, they tend to lose some amount of their nutrition or nutritional value.” This emphasizes the importance of consuming nutrient-rich foods year-round, a message relevant to U.S.health guidelines.
For respiratory health, dr. Owusu recommended simple preventative measures.”Wearing a mask in dusty environments helps protect the nasal passages from irritation and reduces the chances of respiratory discomfort,” he noted. He also advised against nose-picking, stating, “Nose-picking during harmattan can worsen nasal bleeding caused by the dry air, so it’s best to avoid this habit.” These tips are applicable to anyone experiencing dry air conditions, nonetheless of geographic location.
The advice from Dr. Owusu offers practical steps for maintaining good health during dry seasons, emphasizing the importance of hydration, a balanced diet, and preventative measures for respiratory health. These strategies are universally applicable and offer valuable insights for maintaining well-being during periods of dry air and potential health challenges.
Staying Hydrated and Healthy During Dry Seasons: Expert Offers Key Advice
Dry seasons can pose unique health risks due to low humidity and increased exposure to sun. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet are crucial for mitigating these risks, according to wellness experts like dr. Abena Mensah, founder of the Accra Health Clinic. Recently Dr. Mensah shared some valuable strategies for navigating the dry season and staying healthy.
The Importance of Increased Water Intake
Senior Editor: Dr. Mensah, the dry season is upon us, and manny people seem to forget just how essential hydration is at this time. What are your recommendations for staying hydrated during these drier months?
Dr. Abena Mensah: absolutely! It’s critical to emphasize hydration throughout the year, but even more so during dry seasons. Your body loses more moisture through sweating in the heat, and the air itself is dry. Aim for at least three liters of water daily, and if you’re working outdoors or engaging in physical activity, be sure to increase that amount further. Many people mistakenly think they’re not thirsty, but dehydration can often be sneaky.
Senior Editor: What strategies can help people remember to drink enough water, especially when they don’t feel thirsty?
Dr. Mensah: I always recommend keeping a reusable water bottle with you at all times — at home, at work, even while running errands. That constant visual reminder can be very helpful. Set reminders on your phone throughout the day to take a sip of water. And if you find plain water boring, try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or even fresh mint to infuse it with flavor.
Alcohol Consumption and Dehydration
Senior Editor: You mentioned dehydration being a concern, and many people tend to enjoy alcoholic beverages during social gatherings, especially during the festive season. What are your thoughts on alcohol consumption during dry seasons?
Dr. Abena Mensah: It’s important to be mindful of alcohol intake during dry seasons. Alcohol acts as a diuretic,which means it increases urine production and can lead to further dehydration. If you choose to drink,alternate alcoholic beverages with a glass of water to help minimize the dehydrating effects. Moderation is key, and it’s always best to prioritize hydration.
The Role of Diet in boosting Immunity
Senior Editor: Besides hydration, what other steps can people take to stay healthy during the dry season?
Dr. Abena Mensah: Diet plays a crucial role in supporting your immune system, which can be weakened during dry seasons when respiratory infections are more common. I strongly recommend incorporating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet. These are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost your immune defenses.
Senior Editor: Many people tend to rely on heavier, cooked meals during the dry season. Are there any specific dietary recommendations for this time of year?
Dr. Abena Mensah: You’re right – it’s common to crave comfort foods during cold, dry weather. but try to balance those with lighter, nutrient-rich options. Eating raw or lightly steamed vegetables helps preserve their nutritional value. Salads with colorful vegetables,fruits,and nuts provide a great balance and can be quite satisfying.
protecting Against Respiratory Issues
Senior Editor: Dry air can frequently enough irritate the respiratory system. What advice would you give for preventing respiratory problems during this time?
Dr. abena Mensah: Wearing a mask in dusty environments or outside on windy days can be helpful. This protects your nasal passages from irritation.
Senior Editor: Are there any other precautions people should take regardings their respiratory health during dry seasons?
Dr. Abena Mensah: Avoid nose-picking! Dry air can already lead to nosebleeds, and picking your nose can worsen the problem. Using a saline nasal spray can definitely help moisturize nasal passages and prevent irritation.
Senior Editor: Dr. Mensah,thank you so much for sharing these valuable tips for staying healthy throughout the dry season.
Dr. Abena Mensah: you’re very welcome! Remember, taking proactive steps towards hydration, nutrition, and respiratory health can make a big difference in your overall well-being during this time.
