7 THE VEGAN
HOT WEATHER HEALTH By
L E S L I E CAMERON-JAMES,
PS.D.,
D.O.
AA/^HILE it is relatively rare to get high temperatures in Britain, a * * sudden heat-wave can be most distressing and often dangerous to many people. That the sun greatly stimulates life there is no doubt. Of the total rays reaching the earth 7 per cent consist of ultra-violet, 13 per. cent are visible light and 80 per cent infra-red. The ultra-violet emanation is the strongest one can get by natural methods, comparing only with electrical apparatus which gives off from five per cent as in the case of the carbon arc lamp, to 28 per cent in the mercury arc lamp. The acceleration of plant growth is considerable when the effect of the sun's rays are felt. Also, while sunlight can take colour from certain dead substances such as coloured materials, it will add colour to things which live and move. In summer, flowers bloom in all their beauty, while in the very hot climates of the world the sun must be a factor affecting the brilliant plumage of birds. The actinic rays have particular importance to the skin causing the removal of a large part of the impurities which incessantly accumulate in the system causing auto-intoxication or self-poisoning of the blood. People who have suffered with sub-health duirng the colder months should take every opportunity of getting out in the open air during the summer. One should not, however, overdo things during a heat-wave. It is best to wear only loose comfortable clothing so that the sun's rays can reach and penetrate as large an area of the body as respectability will permit. However, one must be prepared to put on more clothes the next day should the weather become colder. It is best to decide in the morning what clothes are to be worn that day. Sun bathing is very beneficial, but it is wise to be temperate. When lying under the sun, start with a period of say 15 or 20 minutes turning over during that time. Then break off and seek shade for a while. By alternating periods of sun and shade it is possible to prevent the unpleasant burning that might otherwise ensue. Meals during hot weather are a major consideration to health and the diet must be quite different from that taken in other periods of the year. A great amount of heat is produced within the body as the result of the digestion of heavy proteins, starches, sugars and fats. Such food during a heat-wave is asking for trouble. In place of these foods it is better to take plenty of fresh raw vegetable salads and fresh fruit. These contain much liquid and they are mostly light and easily digested in the stomach. One should take plenty of time over salads and masticate each mouthful thoroughly. Many delicious combinations of salads can be thought out and in addition to the usual vegetables available, such as lettuce, watercress,