Heatwave is the new normal: There is a surprising way it benefits the body

The scorching summer heat has made its presence felt in several parts of northern India with patients scurrying to outpatient departments (OPDs) to report stomach aches, muscle cramps, vomiting, fever, diarrhoea and other infections.

Heat-related illnesses might be a regular affair every year, but as heatwaves become more intense, these ailments flare up with newer symptoms.

Come summer, hospitals begin to add beds in anticipation of patients arriving at the emergency room, collapsing because of heatstroke or dehydration.

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The negative effects of heatwave and how it cripples the body’s cooling mechanism if one is not being careful is a well-researched phenomenon.

However, there’s a flipside to it as well.

As much as the sultry sun spikes up diseases with a temperature tick, heat might not be as bad as one thinks. There is a range of high temperatures at which one can build immunity, reduce cell damage in the body and relieve inflammation.

But there are certain conditions that one has to abide by to make this “controlled exposure to extreme heat” beneficial for health.

A HEAT SHOCK

It is essential to stay well-hydrated before, during, and after heat exposure to prevent dehydration. Consulting healthcare professionals before engaging in heat exposure practices is especially important for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. It is essential to stay well-hydrated before, during, and after heat exposure to prevent dehydration. (Photo: Generative AI by Vani Gupta/India Today)

According to Dr Mohsin Wali, Senior Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, during extreme temperatures, our body produces substances called Heat Shock Proteins (HSP) and Cold Shock Proteins (CSP).

“The body's immune system gets boosted due to the formation of these proteins. They make sure that damaged cells die when they should, a process that becomes uncontrollable when there is cancer in the body. Extreme weather also helps in cell regeneration. Together, they support our immune system, reducing stress in the body and protecting the brain," said Dr M Wali.

Mikhail Poromaenko, Institute of Cytology & Genetics, defined it as: "Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) are specific proteins that are made when cells are briefly exposed to temperatures above their normal growth temperature.”

The synthesis of HSPs is a universal phenomenon, occurring in all plant and animal species studied, including humans. Dr Jitendra Nagpal, Chairman, the Institute of Mental Health, Moolchand Hospital, stated that shock proteins have been found to have a positive impact on cognitive abilities.

“The progression of certain diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease can be slowed by certain shock proteins. They prevent damage to brain nerve cells caused by misfolded and aggravated proteins. It has been found that depression patients show improvement by receiving infrared treatment," said Dr Nagpal.

THERE ARE CONDITIONS

Extreme heat, often experienced during saunas, hot baths, or heatwaves, can provide benefits for the body when the exposure typically ranges between 40°C and 60°C for a short duration, ensuring safety and efficacy.

Dr Anurag Aggarwal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, said that shock proteins function as molecular chaperones, aiding in the proper folding and repair of damaged proteins, preventing aggregation, and maintaining cellular homeostasis.

“Short, supervised exposure to extreme heat can enhance cardiovascular function. It increases heart rate, improves blood flow, and induces sweating, which can help detoxify the body. Heat exposure can temporarily increase metabolic rates, aiding weight management and improving metabolic health as well,” Dr Aggarwal told IndiaToday.In. Short, supervised exposure to extreme heat can enhance cardiovascular function. (Photo: Generative AI by Vani Gupta/India Today)

Another way shock proteins benefit the body is by relieving muscle tension, reducing pain, and improving joint mobility. This benefits those who have arthritis or muscle soreness.

SAFETY MEASURES TO KEEP IN MIND

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Hydration: Stay well-hydrated before, during, and after heat exposure to prevent dehydration.

Duration: Limit the duration of exposure. Typically, sessions of 10 to 20 minutes are recommended.

Temperature: Monitor and ensure temperatures are within safe ranges (40 degrees Celsius to 60 degrees Celsius).

Medical Supervision: Individuals with pre-existing health conditions should consult healthcare professionals before engaging in heat exposure practices.

HOW TO ENHANCE HOT SHOCK PROTEINS

Immersing yourself in the heatwave is not the only way to activate the hot shock proteins. Experts shared some other ways too.

Exercise

Engaging in cardiovascular and strength training makes the muscles work hard, increasing body temperature, which results in the production of HSPs.

Sauna

Taking a sauna bath increases the body's core temperature. This results in an increase in HSP. Regular Sauna bath is related to improved brain, lung, and skin health and reduced inflammation levels. Frequent sauna bath users also have reported fewer cardiovascular diseases. Taking a sauna bath increases the body's core temperature. (Photo: Getty Images)

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Cold showers

Use a cold shower after finishing a workout or sauna session or end your warm shower with a splash of cold water. This stimulates Cold Shock Proteins (CSPs).

Get outdoors

Just a few minutes of sun exposure can increase your body temperature, thus triggering the production of heat shock proteins.

Dr Anupama Sardana, Internal Medicine, Holy Family Hospital, cautioned about exposure to extreme temperatures.

“While there are benefits to controlled exposure to heat, extreme heatwaves pose significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Adequate precautions, such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure, and seeking cool environments when necessary, are crucial,” said Dr Sardana.

While the health benefits of high temperatures may entice someone to get outside in summer, taking precautions is of the utmost importance. Most of these shock proteins are produced in controlled environments, which is crucial to take cognisance of a healthier body.

Published By: Daphne Clarance Published On: May 27, 2024