What to drink to prevent heatstroke

To prevent heatstroke, it is important to choose beverages that can promptly replenish fluids and electrolytes. Suitable options include warm water, light salt water, weak tea, mung bean soup, and sports drinks. The details are as follows:

1. Warm water: Warm water is the basic beverage for preventing heatstroke. Its temperature is close to body temperature, allowing for rapid absorption and timely replacement of fluid lost through sweat. Avoid drinking ice-cold water, as low temperatures may stimulate constriction of gastrointestinal blood vessels, impair digestion, and cause pores to contract, hindering heat dissipation.

2. Light salt water: In high-temperature environments, excessive sweating leads to significant loss of sodium ions through sweat. Light salt water helps restore lost electrolytes, maintain fluid balance, and prevent symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness caused by hyponatremia. Prepare by adding 1–2 grams of salt per 1000 milliliters of water; the taste should be slightly salty.

3. Weak tea: Opt for mild teas such as green tea or chrysanthemum tea, brewed lightly rather than strongly. Tea polyphenols in tea leaves have a mild heat-clearing effect, and weak tea effectively rehydrates with a refreshing taste that is easily accepted. Avoid strong tea, as its high caffeine content has a diuretic effect that may accelerate fluid loss.

4. Mung bean soup: A traditional heat-relief beverage, mung bean soup should be prepared with ample water to create a light broth—avoid making it too thick or adding excessive sugar. Mung beans are cooling in nature and help clear internal heat and relieve summer heat. They also contain various vitamins and minerals, providing minor nutritional benefits alongside hydration.

5. Sports drinks: Suitable for individuals engaging in intense physical activity or prolonged work in hot environments, these beverages contain appropriate amounts of electrolytes and carbohydrates to quickly restore energy and nutrients lost through sweat.

In addition to choosing the right drinks, proper drinking habits are essential for preventing heatstroke. Follow the principle of drinking small amounts frequently, rather than waiting until you feel thirsty to drink water. Also, avoid prolonged outdoor activities during peak heat hours, take adequate sun protection and cooling measures, and adopt comprehensive strategies to reduce the risk of heatstroke.