A public health expert has shared a unique heatwave cooling tip as the UK continues to scorch in a record-breaking heatwave. Dr Ayazullah Safi, Senior Lecturer in Public Health at Birmingham City University (BCU), recommends freezing grapes as a healthier alternative to ice cream to stay cool.
Record-Breaking Heatwave
The rare red weather warning for extreme heat has been extended until 9pm on Friday for numerous areas across south-east England, including London, marking the first time this exceptional alert has been issued for three consecutive days. Additionally, a red warning is already active for parts of southern England and Wales, while a broader amber warning remains in effect across the country.
In what has proved to be a record-breaking June, the Met Office has recorded a provisional temperature of 36.4C at Yeovilton, Somerset, making it the hottest June day ever documented. This eclipses the previous day's record high of 36.1C recorded in Hampshire, which had itself surpassed the long-standing record established back in 1976.
Frozen Grapes: A Healthy Cooling Hack
Dr Safi advises freezing grapes and consuming them as a method to remain cool throughout the heatwave, while avoiding unhealthy, sugar-laden ice cream. The public health specialist elaborates: "[Grapes are] a great sweet treat for hydration and a healthier alternative to ice cream."
In conversation with The Telegraph, Farzanah Nasser, a gut health nutritionist and author of The Everyday High-Fibre Plan, supported the recommendation: "During a heatwave, eating well can support energy, keep you hydrated and have a huge impact on how you feel. So many of the plants we eat are made up of water. Grapes are more than 80 per cent water. They're lovely and give a burst of freshness."
Grapes are packed with valuable nutrients such as potassium and fibre, and ought to be frozen in a sealed bag or container for a minimum of two hours prior to eating. Generally speaking, grapes can be frozen and preserved for up to three months, positioning them as the ideal cooling solution for this unprecedented British summer.
Other Unusual Cooling Tips
Dr Safi also suggests freezing your pillow. He recommends putting your pillowcase in a sealed plastic bag and storing it in the freezer for 30 minutes. He adds: "While it's a temporary solution, it can help you fall asleep far more quickly by cooling you down."
Another tip involves using a hot water bottle filled with cold water and placed in the freezer. Dr Safi suggests keeping the chilled bottle at the foot of your bed before settling down for the night, or wrapping it in a towel to press against your body when you're feeling too warm.
Importance of Checking on Vulnerable People
Being mindful of the wider community, particularly those most at risk, is critically important during extreme weather conditions such as the current heatwave. Dr Safi states: "One of the most important things we can do is check in on vulnerable people. Pregnant people, the elderly, those with long-term health conditions and anyone who is struggling with mobility or accessing hydration may need extra support during this time. A simple text or visiting can prevent serious health consequences such as exhaustion and heatstroke."
Exercise Advice During Heatwave
For those wishing to keep up their exercise routines during this spell, Dr Safi offers some straightforward and practical guidance: "Physical activity remains important during the hot weather, but be careful to not place additional strain on your cardiovascular system. Get your exercise in before 9am or after 7pm, reduce exercise intensity if required and consider indoor activity during the high temperatures."
