Is it ok to allow children to spend time in air-conditioned rooms?
Posted on: 14/May/2017 11:47:10 AM
The summer intensity is becoming more unbearable with each passing day. Because of this, the children, the elders, and the pregnant women in the houses are facing extreme hardship. Because of this, there is an increasing tendency to install air-conditioners in the houses. Is this trend right?
Generally, most people are aware under the impression that air-conditioners is not good for health. However, in a tropical country like ours, there is not much harm in allowing the children to stay in air-conditioner rooms.
Keeping the air-conditioner on is ok in order to avoid dust, waste materials, the beating sun, and the sweat and their effect. However, the air-conditioner should be kept under 24-26 Degrees Celsius.
Keep the infants with suitable clothing for summer and keep them cuddling with their mothers. However, remember to clean the air-conditioner at least once in 3 months.
Is it ok to give water to infants under 6 months?
No. Please give only mother’s milk to the infants – just because we are affected by the summer, we cannot presume that the infants may also suffer and may need water. Mother’s milk has good water content.
If they pass urine of yellow colour, it signifies that they have not taken sufficient water. So, give them some extra mother’s milk. The feeding mothers should take food items with good water content.
Is it better to take them out?
No, it is not wise to take the children out during hot sun. They may be affected by heat stroke. If at all it is unavoidable to take them out, take them out either before 9.00 AM or after 5.00 PM.
Are nutritious drinks good?
No. They are not. They contain excess fat and sugar. So, it is better not to give them to children until they reach 2 years of age. Similarly, processed fruit juices are also harmful to the children.
What type of clothes are best?
Cotton is the best. Do not wear tight clothes. Dress them in loose-fitting clothes. Ensure that you bathe them twice a day.
Is it ok to give ice water?
No. Please do not give ice water to children. For the older children (above 3 years), mix ice water with normal water and give. Do not allow them to eat ice cubes.
Why do the children not feel hungry during summer?
Most children keep saying they are not hungry. This is mainly because they drink excess water. But do not make a fuss about it. Do not give any tonic for inducing hunger.
Will eating fruits lead to cold?
No. This notion that fruits will cause cold is wrong. There is no connection whatever.
Will drinking excessive fruit juices lead to loose motion?
Yes. Do not allow the children to consume litres of fruit juices. This will definitely lead to loose motion.
