Here’s how to beat the heat without breaking the bank

4. Take short showers – neither too hot nor too cold. They refresh you, prevent thermal shock and reduce water consumption. Use cool water to dampen your wrists and neck when it’s too hot.

5. Use your car sensibly. If possible, share journeys with friends, colleagues or relatives. Let some fresh air into the car before switching on the air conditioning. Avoid leaving the engine running for long periods.

6. Eat fresh, local, seasonal produce. Summer fruit and vegetables help you stay hydrated naturally. Cut down on ultra-processed or packaged foods, which cost more and generate more waste. In summer, food can be your ally against the heat, if you choose the right foods such as fruit and vegetables rich in water and minerals (cucumbers, watermelon, melon, lettuce, courgettes, peaches, apricots, tomatoes) and energising yet light foods such as nuts, whole grains and plain yoghurt (with fresh fruit). Avoid foods that are too salty, fried or high in fat: they increase the sensation of heat and make digestion harder.

7. Drink tap water (if it is safe to drink in your local area). In summer, your fluid requirements increase, but it is not true that you necessarily need sugary or shop-bought drinks to ‘recharge your batteries’. If the tap water in your local area is safe to drink and regularly tested (as is the case in most of Italia), it is the most sustainable and economical choice. You’ll avoid plastic, save money and stay hydrated without consuming loads of sugar.

8. It’s better to go to the beach or the swimming pool and take food and drink from home, so as to save money on food and drink.