Living in the tropics has many advantages, especially the weather, but sometimes even we have to admit the heat can be a bit too much.

If you struggle to stay chilled when the temperature hots up, Yello has put together this short and simple list of four ways to cool down, just for you.

Stay hydrated

Sweating is how the body regulates its temperature, so you need to keep drinking to give your body something to work with while it’s trying to cope with the heat.

Drinking at least one glass of cold water every hour can help to bring down your body temperature and make you less likely to suffer heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Experts say you shouldn’t wait until you’re thirsty to start drinking because that means you’re already dehydrated. Try to keep sipping throughout the day.

Avoid going out between 11am – 4pm

Most of us know that the sun is at its strongest between 11am and 4pm so if you’re trying to stay cool it’s best to go out early in the morning or wait until the sun has cooled late in the afternoon.

If you have to go out in the sun during the day, try to avoid direct sunlight and always wear a hat and sunglasses and apply a high sun factor protection cream.

Eat small meals

When we eat our bodies heat up and this process is prolonged if you have a bigger portion so it’s best to keep meals small and regular during hotter days.

You should also pay close attention to what you eat, as salty and high protein foods use up more metabolic heat which again, causes your body temperature to rise.

The best foods to consume on hot days are fruit and vegetables. You should also keep alcohol consumption to a minimum as it can increase the effect of heat.

Wear cotton

Wearing loose, cotton clothing will help to keep you cool even on the hottest days. Avoid dark colours and opt for white or cream because these deflect, rather than absorb, the sun’s damaging UV rays.

Sleeping in cotton sheets should also help you get some rest on hot, stuffy nights. You can also try spraying your bedsheets with a light mist of water just before you get in.

If you feel yourself overheating try applying a cold, wet towel to certain parts of the body including the neck, wrist and feet to bring down the body’s core temperature.

Sources: The Sun / The New York Times / Sheerluxe