Brits urged to avoid 3 specific drinks this week as heatwave returns

Brits urged to avoid 3 specific drinks this week as heatwave returns There are three drinks that should be avoided Everyone in the UK has been urged not to consume three different drinks this week as another heatwave continues. The fifth heatwave of the summer is taking hold across much of the UK, and people need to stay safe. The NHS has listed three drinks that can cause damage in the heat as they promote dehydration and raise body temperature. It is important to stay hydrated and remain as cool as possible as temperatures are set to reach 37 °C. The NHS said: "Many of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. During heatwaves, more people than usual get seriously ill or die. When hot weather hits, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know." Heatwaves pose a risk to people when they do not drink enough water, overheat, and develop heat exhaustion or heatstroke. To cope with the hot weather, it is advised not to consume three drinks. What drinks to avoid in the heatwave The NHS has recommended that people do not have alcohol, caffeine or hot drinks. It said: "Cool yourself down. Have cold food and regular cold drinks. Drink extra fluids but avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes." To treat dehydration, the NHS added: "You should drink fluids if you have symptoms of dehydration. If you feel sick or have been sick, you may find it hard to drink, so start with small sips and then gradually drink more. Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol as both will dehydrate you." You should try to avoid: - Caffeine - Alcohol - Hot drinks UK weather this week The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning through much of Thursday. It covers the southern and eastern parts of England, as well as the Midlands. Met Office Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer said: “While the peak heat will be more short-lived than recent heatwaves, temperatures widely into the mid-30s Celsius on Thursday brings the potential for impacts for some, which is why a Met Office warning has been issued. “High pressure is now becoming dominant and temperatures will build day-by-day. Southerly and southeasterly winds will also tap into the hot conditions over Europe, which helps develop this further notable heat in what has been a hot and dry summer so far for many in the south of the UK.” There are likely to be impacts on health, potential water safety incidents and travel disruption. The UK Health Security Agency has also issued a heat health alert. William Spencer, climate and first aid expert at the British Red Cross, said: “While periods of hot weather have become more familiar in recent years, they can still pose serious risks to health. In fact, after prolonged dry and warm conditions, it is more important than ever to follow heat safety advice. “Simple steps such as wearing sunscreen, drinking plenty of fluids, seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day and taking regular breaks from the sun can help protect you and those around you. It’s also important to look out for the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly among people who may be more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. “Many communities are also experiencing drought conditions or are in areas at increased risk of wildfires. We encourage everyone to follow advice from local authorities and visit our website for practical guidance on staying safe and supporting anyone who may be at greater risk during periods of extreme heat.”