Dr. Archita Mahajan, a nutrition dietitian, child care expert, trained yoga teacher, and award-recognized health professional, has issued an advisory regarding the rising heatwave conditions expected across large parts of India.
According to weather alerts, several states are likely to experience severe heatwave conditions in the next two days, with temperatures potentially reaching up to 45°C even in April. The extreme heat is expected to increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
Dr. Mahajan emphasized the importance of staying hydrated throughout the day, advising people to drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily without waiting for thirst. She recommended consuming natural electrolytes such as lemon water, coconut water, buttermilk, and ORS solutions to maintain fluid balance.
She also advised including water-rich fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, oranges, and grapes in the daily diet to prevent dehydration.
Key symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, headache, and dark-colored urine. Early recognition of these signs is essential to avoid serious health complications.
Preventive measures include avoiding excessive caffeine, tea, cold drinks, and alcohol, as they can worsen dehydration. People are also advised to wear light-colored, loose cotton clothing, cover their heads when going outdoors, and use sunglasses for protection.
Dr. Mahajan further recommended carrying a water bottle at all times, avoiding spicy and fried foods, and resting immediately in a cool place if symptoms like dizziness or weakness occur.
Health experts stress that following these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses during extreme summer conditions.