Keeping cool when temperatures reach record highs isn't just about comfort. Dangerously high temperatures can result in heat-related illnesses ranging from cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke.  The following tips can help you keep cool all summer long.

• Alter your pattern of outdoor exercise to take advantage of cooler times of the day.  If you can't change the time of your workout, scale it down a few minutes or decrease your level of exertion.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color.
• Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than many synthetics.
• Fans can help circulate air and make you feel cooler even in an air-conditioned house.
• Try storing lotions or cosmetic toners in the refrigerator to use on hot, overtired feet.
• Keep plastic bottles of water in the freezer; grab one when you're ready to go outside. As the ice melts, you'll have a supply of cold water with you.
• Take refreshing baths or showers with cool or tepid water.
• Combat dehydration by drinking plenty of water along with sports drinks or other sources of electrolytes. 
• Try a small, portable, battery-powered fan or use a water bottle that sprays a cooling mist.
• Avoid an overload of caffeine and/or alcohol as these will promote dehydration. 
• Instead of hot foods, try lighter summer fare including frequent small meals or snacks containing cold fruit or low fat dairy products. 
• If you don't have air-conditioning, arrange to spend at least parts of the day in public spaces that are cool. Many cities have cooling centers that are open to the public on sweltering days.
• Finally, if the heat is just intolerable, stay indoors when you can and avoid activities in direct sunlight or on hot asphalt surfaces. Pay special attention to the elderly, infants, and anyone with a chronic illness, as they may dehydrate easily and be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Don't forget that pets also need protection from dehydration and heat-related illnesses too.

Information provided by Medicine.net.  If you have a topic for Wellness Wednesday, email us at Elements@nfta.com.