Xevi Verdaguer, psychoneuroimmunologist: "There are people whose health needs the most improvement: hydration."

Summer is here, and with it, high temperatures invite us to seek shade and air conditioning. But beyond comfort, extreme heat puts our bodies to the test, activating a complex defense mechanism to avoid what we all fear: heat stroke. Xevi Verdaguer, psychoneuroimmunologist and health expert, has revealed how this amazing process works and offered simple tips to stay safe and well hydrated during the hottest time of the year.

When the mercury rises, our body, a perfect machine, doesn't sit idly by. A coordinated response is activated to maintain its ideal temperature and prevent overheating. Verdaguer describes it as a "perfect orchestra" directed by the hypothalamus , a region of the brain that acts as our internal thermostat. This conductor receives the heat signal and sets in motion a series of vital actions to cool us down.

The first reaction is an increase in heart rate. The heart pumps faster to circulate blood more efficiently, but not just any way. Blood circulation is largely diverted toward the skin's surface. The goal? To dissipate internal heat to the outside, a process Verdaguer compares to the way a radiator releases heat.

At the same time, our breathing speeds up, and not just to take in more air. Through breathing, and especially through sweating, the body cools itself through evaporation. It's the most effective mechanism we have for lowering temperature. "So, through sweating, the body can cool down faster," explains Verdaguer.

This sophisticated mechanism is our first line of defense to avoid serious problems such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or, in the worst case, having to go to the hospital for heat stroke . The expert emphasizes the importance of taking care of this natural process and not making it more difficult for the body.

Although our bodies are designed to self-regulate, they need our help to function properly. And this is where hydration comes in, one of the most common recommendations during the summer season. Xevi Verdaguer emphasizes that "there are people whose greatest pillar of health is where they need the most improvement."

For the psychoneuroimmunologist, hydration goes beyond drinking water. You don't have to wait until you're thirsty to start drinking. Thirst is the first sign that the body is already dehydrated. Therefore, the expert's advice is clear. "Take care of yourself in the summer, cool off, drink water, and hydrate well with seasonal fruits and vegetables." Fresh foods like watermelon, melon, cucumber, and tomatoes are perfect allies, as they not only provide water but also essential vitamins and minerals.

Verdaguer also warns about the signs that indicate we're losing fluids. Pay attention to dry mouth, muscle cramps, or a feeling of weakness, as these can be early warning signs. The expert emphasizes the importance of avoiding dehydration, as a well-hydrated body is a body that functions better.