Bring the heat

The biting cold of winter is gone and the dog days of summer are upon us. It was not long ago that we were complaining about how the winter was dragging on and we’d do just about anything to bask in the heat of our universe’s nearest star, even if it is 150 million kilometres away.

But beware the dual edged sword of our planet’s source of light and heat. You’ve just emerged from the darkness of winter and a few words to the wise are in order to make the most of our short summers, with the least amount of regret.  Before stripping down and running around under the sun like some Neanderthal sun-worshipper, let’s remember why the sun is the most powerful thing in the universe.

The sun emits ultraviolet radiation, which if not for our ozone layer, would kill us. Even with the protection of the ozone layer, overexposure to the sun will lead to skin damage, including the potential for cancer. This damage also includes esthetic damage to the skin leading to wrinkles and spots.
Key advice: Use sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection with at least a 30 SPF, but if possible, limit your sun exposure, and wear clothing that blocks UV radiation. Use sunscreens that have as few chemicals as possible.

The sun’s radiant heat can dramatically alter the heat of the surrounding environment and subsequently our bodies. We have the ability to modulate our body’s response to heat primarily by sweating, but only to a certain degree and only for a limited amount of time, influenced in large part by our hydration level.
Key advice: Consume 30ml or water per kilogram of bodyweight per day, including 250 ml of water every 20 minutes or so during exercise. Avoid the hottest times of the day (10 AM-2 PM) and go easy on the hottest days by going to the gym or exercising outside in the evening or early morning.

Your eyes are sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet rays and excessive exposure will lead to cataracts and other damage. You may not experience the damage in the short term as you do with a sunburn, but the long term results can be disastrous.
Key advice: Use sunglasses that block as much light as possible, including the light reflected off the surrounding environment, especially water and sand. Look for the UV400 or ANSI Z80.3 designations.

 The sun is an important part of all our daily lives, but needs to be treated with respect. Enjoy the summer, get outside, and exercise to your UV-protected heart’s content.


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