Canada Day long weekend is here and it will be a hot one in the National Capital Region! Anticipated highs are expected to reach record levels, exceeding 40 degrees Celsius!
Bright sunlight, high humidity and lack of wind and shade can challenge your body’s ability to dissipate heat and maintain a normal body temperature. Hot, humid weather can place significant stress on your cardiovascular system.
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute encourages all party-goers celebrating Canada Day this weekend to follow these important tips to ensure your festivities are safe, happy and healthy.
Avoid Heat-Related Injuries:
- Stay hydrated!
- Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing to help you stay cool in the sun.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat! Sun burns decrease the body’s ability to cool itself.
- Be aware of the symptoms of heat injury such as chills, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and profuse sweating. If you experience any of these symptoms, find a cool shaded area, relax and drink plenty of water and, if you’re feeling unwell, consider returning home to rest.
Don’t Forget Healthy Eating!
Even though it’s a special day for all Canadians, and there will be temptation to indulge in unhealthy snacks, try to eat as heart-healthy as possible. Here are a few tips you can try:
- Listen to your body. Eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re satisfied.
- Plan healthy snacks.
- Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits at every meal.
- Limit alcohol consumption. A maximum of three servings a day for men and two servings a day for women is a good guide for appropriate celebratory intake!
For more information about how you and your family and friends can maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle, consult the University of Ottawa Heart Institute’s Prevention and Wellness website.
Happy Canada Day to all.