High summer temperatures in Greece pose health risks for both expats and locals alike. Below are the 5 main summer health risks you should be aware of.
1. Dehydration. It happens more often than you think and it requires far more just water. Remember to consume daily great amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables which are high in water % such as melon, watermelon, pineapple, cucumber, lettuce and lemon. Stay out of direct sun as many hours as possible during the days that the temperature is beyond 30o C.
2. Sunburns and heat illness.The intense summer sun in Greece can quickly cause sunburn on any exposed skin. It is important to always use high sun protection (SPF 30+ for UVA and UVB rays), wear a hat and light clothing, and seek shade whenever possible during the day to prevent sunburn.
3. Seasonal depression and allergies.Summer is not always enjoyable for everyone. Some individuals experience allergies and require long-term medication, while others may struggle with seasonal depression due to emotional or mental health issues. If you find that summer is not as pleasant as you would like it to be, do not hesitate to seek help. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being.
4. Unsafe summer foods.Indulging in raw food by the sea or seafood under the moonlight may seem romantic, but it can also pose risks. High temperatures and inadequate cleaning practices can lead to an increase in bacterial content in food, potentially causing gastroenteritis and other gastrointestinal issues. Ensure that your food is thoroughly cooked or meticulously washed with ample clean water to avoid any health complications.
5. A/C. High temperatures. The use of air-conditioning is essential in high temperatures, especially indoors. However, improper maintenance of these systems can lead to the circulation of airborne microorganisms, increasing the risk of flu and causing dryness in the eyes, noise, and sometimes a dry mouth. It is important to allow fresh air to circulate indoors daily, even when it is hot, and to ensure that the filters in your air-conditioning units are kept clean and replaced regularly.
Book your 30-min. expression online session to discuss with Dr. Valentini Konstantinidou any health and nutrition issue you may have during summer.
Founder DNANUTRICOACH®
Nutrigenetics Researcher and lecturer, Barcelona, Spain.
Registered dietitian-Nutritionist, Food Technologist
Contact us: DNANUTRICOACH – Nutrigenetics Center
Address: 36, Grigoriou Lampraki Str. Glyfada, 16674, Attiki, Greece.
Phone: (+30) 2109615860
Email: info@dnanutricoach.com
