Summer Fatigue Linked to Hydration and Diet, Nutritionist Says
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Many people feel unusually tired and lack energy during summer, even with adequate sleep.
- Nutritionist Zhang Xinfang suggests incorrect hydration or unbalanced diet could be causes.
- Replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat is key, not just relying on coffee.
Feeling perpetually tired and lacking energy during the summer months, despite getting enough sleep, is a common complaint. Nutritionist Zhang Xinfang points to two primary culprits behind this summer fatigue: improper hydration and an imbalanced diet.
As temperatures rise, the body works harder to cool down, primarily through sweating. This process not only leads to a significant loss of water but also depletes essential electrolytes. Zhang explains that simply drinking more water might not be enough if the body's electrolyte balance is not maintained.
"When the body sweats in high temperatures, it loses not only water but also some electrolytes," Zhang noted. The nutritionist advises against relying solely on caffeine-based beverages like coffee to combat this lethargy. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of replenishing both fluids and the electrolytes lost through perspiration.
To combat summer fatigue, Zhang recommends focusing on proper hydration strategies and ensuring a balanced intake of nutrients. This approach aims to support the body's natural cooling mechanisms and energy levels, providing a more sustainable solution than quick fixes like coffee. The key lies in understanding the body's needs during hot weather and adjusting diet and fluid intake accordingly.
When the body sweats in high temperatures, it loses not only water but also some electrolytes.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.