The temps around the country have been monumnetally cold. Some areas like New england have even reached minus numbers. Wit this brings hypothermia and frostbite. Don;t panic with these. There are foods that hedlp for a good thaw.]
What is hypothermia and is it connected to frostbite? Hypothermia is a condition that happens during very cold temps although it could even happen in forty degree Farenheit weather. it starts when a person becomes wet either from sweat, rain, sleet or snow.A person can become confused and exhausted with uncoordinated hand movements and slurred speech. Frostbite can happen with it.This is where body parts freeze due to frigid temps and the affected areas turn red. The skin could also change color from a healthy pink to a whitihs or gteyish yellow. There is also a firmness to the flesh as well. If both are extreme then head to your local hospital's ER where both can be treated right away. If it's relatively mild then the first thing to do is remove the person's wet clothes and then get them warm. frostbite victims should not be walking. DO NOT place the person by a fireplace, radiator, heat lamp or stove for warming. Heating pads are out too. They cause more harm than good. Also do not rub or massage frostbitten areas either. Again this can cause more problems. Wrap the person in a dryer warmed beach towel or blanket.
What about a warming drink. Alcohol is an absolute taboo!!! It could even cause hypothermia surpringly. What happens is that it may temporarily provide a feeling of heat and warmth thanks to explanding blood vessel. That feeling passes quickly when blood vessles constrict back to their normal size. Do have a big cup of hot cocoa on the ready. This will not only warm the affected person but also ptovide a much needed dose of sugar.It's also a comfort food which will be welcomed too. You can also try sweetened decaf hot teas and coffees. If they're hungry then a cup of hot soup is necessary. It's easy to open up a can and microwave it. What about just plain water? You could boil it and have the person drink it like any other hot drink.If they're hungry then break out the chocolate.It's an energy rich food that raises body temps as well as providing a burst of energy There are foods to eat during these wintry times to stave off hypothermia too. Eat more bananas, whether plain or as dessert with chocolate syrup. As bad as it's supposed to be for you a little red meat is good ofr these frosty times. Have a steak or hamburger every now and then. Sweet potatoes and butternut squash also raise body temps too. Think of them mashed or cut into wedges and air fried for a tasty side or snack.
Frosty times bring about serious problems. Mild cases of hypothermia and frostbite can be treated with a good hot cup. Also eat temperature raising foods too. Keep yourself and your bisy warm and toasty when those arctic temp aarive.
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