Hey Reader!

We’re not here to tell you about a private Taylor Swift concert (we wish!), but we’ve got something important to share.

Let’s talk about the reality of a cruel summer for autoimmune Thrivers, and how heat intolerance makes things tougher.

Heat intolerance in autoimmune conditions comes from a few different issues:

First, there's the nervous system going haywire.

Imagine your Wi-Fi drops out right in the middle of your favorite show—super frustrating, right?

In conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, the body attacks its own nerves, making it tough to handle heat.

Next up is inflammation.

It’s like adding hot sauce to an already spicy dish—it just intensifies the burn.

Those of us with lupus know this all too well.

Then, we have hormonal imbalances from thyroid disorders.

Imagine your body’s thermostat is broken, cranking up the heat when you least need it.

Conditions like Graves' disease or Hashimoto's thyroiditis make you feel like you're stuck in a sauna, and not the relaxing kind.

There’s also the issue of sensitivity to pH and temperature changes.

Picture your immune system as a grumpy cat that gets even more annoyed when things heat up.

Finally, dehydration and fatigue make everything worse.

It’s like trying to run a marathon in a desert while carrying a heavy backpack.

These factors together make dealing with heat a real challenge for us with autoimmune conditions.

Our Hot Tips to Get Over a Cruel Summer

As much as we adore Taylor Swift, our summers don’t have to be cruel, well, unless we forget to follow these tips to beat the heat.

1. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Think of water as your best friend, always ready to refresh you. Add some fruit slices for a fun twist.

Consider brands like Hydro Flask or S'well for your trusty water bottle.

For an extra boost, try electrolyte tablets like Nuun. Hydration is key—don’t leave home without it!

2. Avoid Direct Sunlight

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days; it’s your daily shield.

Brands like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer or La Roche-Posay Anthelios are top picks. They are gentle on sensitive skin, non-comedogenic, and have high SPF ratings.

Picture it as your armor against the sun’s rays. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

3. Wear Lightweight Clothing

Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Dressing like you’re in a breezy commercial can make a huge difference.

Brands like Uniqlo AIRism or Columbia PFG offer great options.

4. Plan Activities Wisely

Engage in outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

It's like scheduling a date with the cooler, nicer side of the sun. Early birds and night owls, rejoice!

Use apps like WeatherBug to track the coolest times of the day.

5. Use Cooling Devices

Fans, cooling vests, and air conditioners can help maintain a comfortable body temperature. These gadgets are your personal climate controllers.

Brands like Dyson for fans and Arctic Cool for cooling vests are highly recommended. A cooling vest is like giving yourself a portable ice bath, minus the wet clothes.

For a simple hack, keep a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of peppermint oil in the fridge for a refreshing mist throughout the day.

Remember, with these tips, your summer can be as sweet as an ice-cold lemonade on a hot day. Stay cool and enjoy the sunshine, minus the sweat and fatigue.

Alright now, so what about that Taylor Swift song, you ask??

​

You're welcome. 🎧💛

​

Xx,