Heatstroke occurs when the body is exposed to intense sun or works in hot, stuffy environments for extended periods, manifesting as fatigue, dizziness, thirst, nausea, or muscle cramps. If not rested and cooled promptly, the condition can become severe, leading to high fever, delirium, or seizures.

Doctor Nguyen Anh Duy Tung, specializing in nutrition and dietetics at Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic, states that to prevent heatstroke, individuals need to maintain adequate nutrition. Below are some drinks that help boost health during summer.

Kudzu root drink

Kudzu root has a sweet, cooling taste and contains isoflavone, which supports increased blood circulation to the brain and helps stabilize blood pressure. During summer days, one can mix kudzu root powder or boil kudzu root to make a drink to cool the body, adding a little sugar or a few drops of lime juice to enhance the flavor. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before consumption.

Watermelon juice

Watermelon is rich in vitamins A, B, C, and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Watermelon juice helps rehydrate, replenish electrolytes, cool the body, and quickly alleviate thirst. This drink also supports blood pressure stability and acts as a diuretic, helping the body recover better from heatstroke.

Centella asiatica drink

Centella asiatica has a bitter, cooling taste and is often used to cool the body, detoxify, and act as a diuretic. This drink supports better blood circulation, reducing headaches and dizziness caused by heatstroke. Blend fresh centella asiatica with filtered water or combine it with coconut water to enhance rehydration.

Fresh lemon water

Lemon water provides vitamin C, supporting immunity and protecting the body from harmful free radicals. Citric acid in lemons also participates in energy metabolism, helping to reduce fatigue. Lemons contain water, potassium, and antioxidants, contributing to mineral replenishment lost due to heat.

Fresh coconut water

Coconut water helps cool the body, rehydrate, and replenish electrolytes when the body shows signs of heatstroke. Potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, copper, and zinc in coconuts contribute to fluid balance, supporting the circulatory, nervous, and immune systems. The abundant potassium content can help regulate electrolytes, aiding in the absorption and distribution of fluids in the body, thereby improving dehydration caused by heat.

Individuals can drink one to two glasses of coconut water daily to cool down, and it is advisable to limit added sugar for health benefits.

Sugarcane juice

Sugarcane juice has a high sugar content, providing quick energy, soothing the body, and reducing fatigue and dizziness. This drink also contains antioxidants, supporting the immune system and reducing common summer illnesses like flu, sore throat, and bronchitis.

Doctor Duy Tung advises individuals to limit outdoor exposure during midday and afternoon hours due to high temperatures. Prioritize staying in cool environments to avoid increased body temperature. If going outside is unavoidable, drink enough water (at least 1,5-2 liters daily), and consider supplementing with electrolyte-rich drinks in addition to plain water.

When the body shows signs such as dark urine, dry mouth, chapped lips, constant thirst, fatigue, sluggishness, dizziness, dry skin, or poor elasticity, patients should seek medical attention.

Quoc An