Nutrition and Hydration Strategies for Heatwave Adaptation: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Climate change impacts
• Public health nutrition
• Environmental health

Background:

• Extreme heat events are increasing due to climate change, posing significant public health challenges.
• High ambient temperatures directly impact human physiology, leading to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and exacerbation of chronic diseases.
• Diet and hydration are modifiable factors in preventing heat-related illnesses, yet remain under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing evidence on the role of nutrition and hydration in mitigating heat-related health risks.
• To identify knowledge gaps and provide recommendations for future research and public health strategies.
• To explore the potential benefits of dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet in heat adaptation.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review integrating evidence from climate-health research, physiology, nutrition science, and public health.
• Focused on direct heat-health evidence versus indirect recommendations.
• Considered vulnerable populations and public health strategies.

Main Results:

• Regular water intake, water-rich foods, and electrolyte replacement are physiologically supported for heatwave conditions, though direct intervention studies are limited.
• Dietary advice suggests smaller, nutrient-dense meals to reduce metabolic burden, but evidence on meal composition is largely indirect.
• Tailored strategies are crucial for vulnerable groups; the Mediterranean diet shows promise as a model for sustainable, heat-resilient eating.

Conclusions:

• Integrating nutrition and hydration into heat-health action plans is essential for preparedness and climate resilience.
• Further research is needed on specific hydration protocols, meal patterns, and the Mediterranean diet's role in heat adaptation.
• Nutrition-sensitive interventions and biomarkers of heat resilience require evaluation in real-world settings.