Hydration Issues and the Harmattan Season

Our tropical climate is characterized by high temperatures and humidity that persist throughout the year. During the New Year season, which falls within the dry season, temperatures can rise even higher, and the humidity levels can drop even lower. The harmattan, a distinctive dry and dusty wind that sweeps across West Africa from the Sahara Desert is officially here. During this period, maintaining proper hydration becomes critically important for both locals and visitors alike. The harmattan typically occurs between December and February, bringing with it extremely dry air and significant temperature variations.

The Harmattan and Dehydration

The harmattan can make dehydration worse due to the extremely dry air. When air is dry, the body loses more moisture through the skin and respiratory system. This can lead to dehydration, especially if one is not drinking enough water. Dehydration can occur when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, and this can be exacerbated by the hot weather, increased physical activity, and consumption of rich and spicy foods that are typical of the yuletide and new year season in Ghana. In addition, the harmattan can also bring dust and sand particles into the air, which can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. This can make it more difficult to breathe and can exacerbate respiratory problems such as asthma.

During this season, traditional new year activities such as cooking over open fires, dancing, and outdoor celebrations can increase sweating and fluid loss. Alcoholic beverages, often consumed at such gatherings, can further dehydrate the body due to their diuretic effect. To maintain good health, it is essential to balance the indulgences with adequate water intake.

The Effects of Dehydration on the Body

Dehydration can have serious effects on the body, especially if left untreated. Some of the common symptoms of dehydration include:

– Headaches

– Dry skin

– Chapped lips

– Fatigue

– Difficulty concentrating

– Dry mouth

– Dark-colored urine

– Dizziness or lightheadedness

In severe cases, dehydration can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and salt, causing the body temperature to rise. Heat stroke, on the other hand, is a more severe condition that occurs when the body temperature rises to 40°C (104°F) or higher, causing damage to the brain and other organs. Therefore, it’s crucial to take preventative measures to stay hydrated and avoid these types of illnesses.

Staying Hydrated During the Harmattan Season in Ghana

Staying hydrated helps support vital body functions, including temperature regulation, digestion, and immune response. Water also aids in flushing out toxins and maintaining skin elasticity, which can be compromised during Harmattan. Staying hydrated during this season in Ghana requires some planning and effort. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated.

Drinking at least eight glasses of water daily is a general guideline, but individual needs may vary based on activity levels and environmental conditions. In addition to water, incorporating foods that are rich in water such as fruits and vegetables like watermelon, coconut, cucumber, and oranges can enhance fluid intake. Traditional Ghanaian beverages such as asaana and sobolo (hibiscus tea) are also excellent choices, providing both hydration and essential nutrients.

Avoid excessive rich and spicy foods that can cause dehydration. Soups and porridges are encouraged since they provide good amount of fluids and vital nutrients.

Healthcare professionals recommend avoiding excessive caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can act as diuretics and exacerbate dehydration. Creating a hydration schedule or carrying a water bottle can serve as helpful reminders to drink water regularly. Take regular breaks to rest and cool off in a shaded area. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that allows for good airflow.

In addition to these tips, it’s also essential to take precautions against the harmattan. Here are some tips to help you protect yourself from the harmattan:

– Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, to protect your skin from the dry air.

– Vaseline or shea butter can be applied to lips and skin to retain moisture and avoid drying and chapping.

– Wear a mask or scarf to protect your face and respiratory system from the dust and sand particles.

– Stay indoors during the peak hours of the harmattan, usually between 10am and 4pm.

– Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and relieve dry skin and respiratory problems.

Staying hydrated during the new year season in Ghana is crucial to avoid dehydration and its complications. The harmattan can make dehydration worse due to the extremely dry air, so it’s essential to take precautions. By drinking plenty of water, eating hydrating foods, you can help ensure a fun and healthy beginning of year season. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of dehydration and heat-related illnesses and seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms.

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Written by Pearl Kudexa (MSc, RD) and reviewed by Dr. Laurene Boateng (PhD, RD).

Laurene Boateng (PhD, RD) is a Registered Dietitian and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Dietetics, University of Ghana. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of www.fullproofnutrition.com , a website committed to providing reliable, evidence-based, and practical healthy eating advice.

Pearl Kudexa (MSc, RD) is a Registered Dietitian and contributing writer for www.fullproofnutrition.com

References:

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2023, May 19). Hydrate Right. Eatright.org. Retrieved December 18, 2024, from https://www.eatright.org/fitness/physical-activity/exercise-nutrition/hydrate-right

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Heat-Related Illnesses.

European Food Safety Authority. (2010). Scientific Opinion on the adequate intake of water.

García-García, David. (2022). Health Promotion and Hydration: A Systematic Review About Hydration Care. Florence Nightingale Journal of Nursing. 30. 10.5152/FNJN.2022.21313.