Eating fluids can also help ensure hydration without the excess toilet trips, says Maryanne (Image: GETTY)
As the heatwave continues to grip the UK, rising overnight temperatures are making it increasingly difficult for the body to cool itself down, frequently playing havoc with sleep. To stave off dehydration, many people are upping their water consumption, but according to one expert, incorporating certain foods into your diet can also help keep you cool while reducing those inconvenient trips to the bathroom.
Maryanne Taylor, sleep consultant and founder of The Sleep Works, has offered her top tips for achieving a better night’s rest during the sweltering conditions.
She explained that the two primary factors affecting sleep in the heat are light and temperature, though other elements can also come into play.
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Drinking water is essential during the hot temperatures (Image: GETTY)
While drinking water remains vital for staying hydrated, consuming greater quantities of fluid than usual can result in more frequent bathroom visits.
To combat this, Maryanne recommends boosting your fluid intake throughout the day and scaling back on larger amounts of liquid an hour or two before bedtime.
For those looking to cut down on evening drinks, Maryanne suggests that water-rich foods can prove highly effective in maintaining hydration levels.
“Eating your fluids can also help ensure hydration without the excess toilet trips,” she told Yours Magazine. “Filling up on cucumber, watermelon and celery – foods that are very high in water – will help.”
Ice cream can make the body feel warmer, according to a doctor (Image: GETTY)
According to health experts, cucumber comprises approximately 95 per cent water, meaning it contributes directly to overall fluid intake. It also contains modest quantities of potassium and magnesium, which assist in regulating fluid movement in and out of cells.
Watermelon can also prove valuable during hot weather due to its high water content, natural sugars and nutrients that aid hydration and recovery. As it consists largely of water and is easily digested, it can feel particularly refreshing in elevated temperatures.
Much like cucumber, celery also contains around 95 per cent water, rendering it another hydrating option during a heatwave.
Water-filled foods such as cucumber and watermelon can help with hydration (Image: GETTY)
What to avoid during a heatwave
According to Phil Beard, a nutritionist at Viridian Nutrition, certain foods and beverages are best steered clear of in extremely hot weather.
“During a heatwave, avoid heavy, greasy foods, spicy meals, and excessive protein, as they generate body heat and are harder to digest,” he said.
“Limit alcohol, which dehydrates and impairs temperature regulation, and go easy on coffee and tea, which can worsen dehydration.”
While an ice-cold beverage may appear to be the ideal method to cool down, Phil cautioned it could trigger stomach discomfort.
“Instead, opt for water-rich foods like watermelon and cucumber, and stay hydrated with water, coconut water, or herbal teas,” he stressed. “Choosing light, cooling foods helps your body stay balanced in extreme heat.”
Meanwhile, while ice cream presents itself as an enticing summer indulgence, Selph’s Dr Alasdair Scott said it can actually cause the body to feel warmer.
“Ice cream is generally high in fat, protein and carbohydrates, which can heat up the body whilst it digests food.” He explained that although the treat produces an immediate cooling effect, the body quickly starts producing heat once more as it sets about digesting it.
