The Stampede is one of Calgary’s most exciting and anticipated summertime events. From carnival rides and games to rodeo performances, it’s the perfect opportunity for Canadians to enjoy outdoor entertainment while getting some sun.
Because the event happens during one of Calgary’s hottest months, protecting your skin and staying hydrated is crucial. Not only does staying in the sun for a prolonged period without protection cause skin issues, it can also cause health problems like dehydration.
Protect your skin:
Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are just a few of the essentials you’ll need during your day/s at the stampede. Exposure to UV-A and UV-B rays from the sun can cause damage to our skin cells and increase harmful health risks. Our INLIV Total Health Management physician, Dr. Nanette Fouchè, shares some tips on sun protection:
“Firstly, it’s important to consider that it gets a few degrees warmer around the Stampede grounds, and a lot of UV-rays can reflect off of its surfaces.” says Dr. Fouchè
1. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with UV-A and UV-B protection daily, even if it’s cloudy outside. Make sure your sunscreen has a minimum SPF of 30 for your body and SPF 50 for your face and remember to reapply it every two hours. Also, water-resistant sunscreen can help you keep it intact if you start to sweat.
2. Wear a hat to protect your face, ears and neck and wear sunglasses.
3. Be even more cautious if you take medication that makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. These include but are not limited to antibiotics, anti-depressants, blood pressure medication and acne medication such as Accutane, immunosuppressants, chemotherapy, etc.
Stay hydrated:
Staying hydrated during your time at the Stampede is another necessity. As you enjoy activities under the sun for long periods, you may start to sweat and lose fluids. If you haven’t had enough water to drink, it can cause dehydration.
Symptoms of dehydration include headaches, dizziness or lightheadedness, dry mouth, a lack of urination and other illnesses.
1. Ensure you drink water at the start of and throughout the rest of the day. The amount of water you should drink differs from person to person; one of the quickest ways to tell if you need more water is through the colour of your urine. Having clear or pale-yellow colored urine is a good sign of hydration, a darker yellow means you aren’t drinking enough water.
2. Eat and drink electrolytes to regulate the balance of fluid in your body and keep your cells active. Foods like salted nuts, broccoli and potatoes have electrolytes like sodium and potassium that help retain water in your body.
3. Eat fruits and vegetables that are high in water. Fruits like watermelons, strawberries and cantaloupe and vegetables like lettuce, spinach and celery are excellent sources of hydration to keep you energized and healthy during the Stampede.
By prioritizing our health and well-being on sunny Stampede days, we can have enjoyable experiences and make lasting memories without compromising our skin and overall health. So, remember to pack your sunscreen, water bottles, and favorite protective hat, and enjoy the rodeo.
Happy Stampeding!
