Jamshedpur : Tanned skin, low blood pressure, acidity, dehydration, throat infection and fatigue. These are some of the common health problems faced by candidates, who are sweating it out under the sun during the election campaign.
While the health conscious are taking all precautions to beat the heat and keep themselves fit, the rest claim to be seasoned enough to cope with the scorching sun. Veterans such as Dr Ajoy Kumar, Niroop Mahanty and Vidyut Mahto are careful about their diet. To ensure that they do not get dehydrated, their family members and campaign managers ensure that they drink a lot of water, buttermilk and tender coconut. Watermelon, cucumber, green coconut, and cane juice are in great demand as the day temperature has been shooting up with the onset of the current summer.
With mercury rising, the day temperature at times remains about 40 degree Celsius in the city, thus affecting the daily lives of the people. Summer has made life miserable. The city is experiencing high degree of temperature over last few days.
The demand of green coconut is on the rise this summer. I am selling more than 150 green coconuts a day, said Mohammed Nizam who sells the green coconut near Tank Road in Sakchi. Green coconut isavailable at Rs 20 in the market these days, whereas it is Rs 10during off season, he said.
This summer fruit is a favorite because of its color, taste and its ability to cool down the body. One of the best things about watermelon is that it contains so much water. Especially during the summer months, hydration becomes so important as you are likely sweating more than usual, further increasing your need.
As usual, watermelon seems to be the most preferred seasonal fruit here and vendors have been doing brisk business since the beginning of April. Makeshift stalls selling watermelon have already appeared in almost every nook and corner of the city.
Watermelon in fruit shops are sold between Rs 12 and Rs 16 per kg Another seasonal favourite is cucumber, which is known for its medicinal properties.
However, unlike watermelons and palm fruit not many vendors sell cucumber exclusively. Apart from fruit and vegetable markets, cucumber is also sold at bus stands.
As the mercury level rises, the demand for these popular coolants also increases. Some vendors serve watermelon and cucumber with a tinge of chilli powder, which is not recommended. Doctors and dieticians advise people to consume seasonal fruits the natural way without adding extras like chilli powder. Consuming seasonal fruits that provide much needed nutrients is recommended as one of the best ways to beat the heat.
