Water-Holding Signifies Positive Conduct in Scorching Conditions - According to Theychenko
Surviving the Heatwave: Tips from Academician Gennady Onishchenko
Photo: Ivan Makeev [Source: KP Photo Bank]
Assistant to academician Onishchenko, Gennady Grigoryevich, offers advice on coping with the current heatwave, as Moscow grapples with temperatures up to 29 degrees Celsius and high humidity.
"Many people have requested to speak with you, trusting your advice," stated the interviewer. The current heatwave has been likened to Mediterranean and even tropical climates due to the heat and humidity.
To manage the heat, Onishchenko suggests wearing loose, light clothing and headgear—hats for women and caps for men. This clothing allows for sweating and evaporation, though it could potentially lead to dehydration. He recommends drinking at least two to three liters of water per day, as suggested even in moderate weather. A water bottle in hand is a smart move for staying hydrated.
Switching gears to diet, Onishchenko advises against consuming fatty, heavy foods. Instead, vegetables and fruits are more suitable in hot weather. If possible, try to spend the hottest hours at home or during the cooler parts of the day. Offices should provide appropriate climate control for their workers, cautions Onishchenko, as too low temperatures may weaken the body's immune system and even cause colds.
When it comes to alcohol consumption, Onishchenko strongly discourages it, especially during the heat. He acknowledges the challenge for outdoor workers and suggests adjusting their work schedule to start earlier or finish later, to avoid peak heat.
When asked about his personal routine, Onishchenko dismissed the question, stating that he was not speaking about himself but about the general public. He offered advice for people with specific health conditions to consult their doctors regarding medications for blood pressure and heart rhythm regulation.
He also brushingly declined to discuss personal matters, such as whether one can engage in sexual activity during the heat.
The interview concluded with insights into surviving magnetic storms and New Year holiday idleness, as well as tips for coping with power outages and incorporating green infrastructure in communities for heat reduction. The core focus remained on staying hydrated, keeping cool indoors and outdoors, managing outdoor activities, protecting vulnerable groups, and being aware of the warning signs for heat-related illnesses.
Science and health-and-wellness intertwine as Academician Onishchenko emphasizes the importance of staying well-hydrated during the current heatwave. Fitness-and-exercise and nutrition play crucial roles too, as he recommends consuming fruits and vegetables and engaging in outdoor activities only during cooler parts of the day.
