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The Association for Consumer Information (VKI) has fact-checked various summer myths.
Isotonic drinks in extreme heat?
“For everyday life and normal physical activity, even in sweaty summer temperatures, the tried-and-tested classics of water, mineral water, and unsweetened tea are sufficient,” explains VKI nutritionist Teresa Bauer. During intense physical activity lasting longer than an hour (e.g., long hikes or extended bike rides), the body loses not only fluid but also essential minerals through increased sweating. “Isotonic drinks can help to compensate for this loss quickly,” says Teresa Bauer. “However, expensive sports drinks are not necessary for this: a simple homemade recipe consists of one part apple juice, two to three parts water, and a pinch of salt. The sugar contained in apple juice also provides quick energy without upsetting the stomach.”
Beverage temperature: better warm than cold?
On hot days, it is imperative to drink enough. Cool drinks can provide pleasant refreshment, but ice-cold varieties should be avoided. These can cause stomach cramps or circulatory problems. Alcoholic beverages also put strain on the circulation and are, as a general rule, only recommended in moderation. “Although drinking hot tea is culturally widespread in some countries, it is not ideal for our latitudes on summer days, because hot drinks stimulate sweat production in hot weather,” explains Teresa Bauer. “Cool or lukewarm non-alcoholic drinks are the best choice for summer—and when it’s hot.”
Does spicy food cool you down in hot weather?
Capsaicin, the spicy ingredient in chili peppers, stimulates perspiration. “This basically has a cooling effect, but additional sweating also puts extra strain on the circulatory system when outside temperatures are high,” says Teresa Bauer. “Those who like spicy food don’t have to give it up in summer, but they should pay attention to their body’s signals. And people with sensitive stomachs are generally well advised to enjoy strongly spiced foods only in moderation.”
Beta-carotene capsules instead of sunscreen?
Beta-carotene is often touted in advertisements for capsule supplements as a natural sunscreen. However, the advertised protection against UV rays has not been sufficiently proven scientifically. High intake can cause an excess of carotenoids to be deposited in the liver, fatty tissue, and skin, which can lead to orange to brownish skin discoloration. “However, this color change has nothing to do with a real summer tan, which is caused by the formation of the skin pigment melanin,” emphasizes Teresa Bauer. “Dietary supplements such as beta-carotene capsules do not offer reliable protection against UV radiation. The best protection remains the same as before: apply sunscreen generously, reapply regularly, and avoid direct sunlight during its most intense hours if possible.”
- source: gesund24.at/picture: Image by bridgesward from Pixabay
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