Houston's Heat Traps: Asphalt Stealing Arginine Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 11, 2026

It’s not just the heat; it’s the Houston heat. That oppressive, asphalt-baked, humidity-drenched blanket that saps your energy and leaves you feeling like a wilted houseplant. But what if I told you there’s more to it than just feeling uncomfortable? Houston’s unique climate, combined with our lifestyle, can lead to specific physiological challenges, namely sun exposure issues and arginine depletion.

Let’s dive into how Houstonians can combat these summer woes, armed with knowledge and practical solutions readily available at your local HEB or Academy Sports + Outdoors.

First, let’s talk about sun exposure. We all know sunscreen is important, but most people aren’t using it correctly. The average person applies less than half the recommended amount of sunscreen, drastically reducing its effectiveness.

Challenge: Inconsistent sunscreen application.
Solution: Use a shot glass to measure out the correct amount of sunscreen (about one ounce) for your body. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.

Beyond sunscreen, consider clothing. Not all fabrics are created equal when it comes to sun protection. Look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. A UPF of 50 means that only 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation can penetrate the fabric.

Where to find it: Academy Sports + Outdoors in Houston carries a variety of UPF-rated clothing, from long-sleeved shirts and pants to hats and swimwear. Look for brands like Columbia, Under Armour, and Magellan.
Pro Tip: Darker colors generally offer more UV protection than lighter colors. A tightly woven fabric will also provide better protection than a loosely woven one.

Now, let’s address the less-discussed issue of arginine depletion. Arginine is an amino acid crucial for various bodily functions, including blood vessel dilation and immune function. Heat stress and sun exposure can increase arginine demand, potentially leading to depletion. This is exacerbated by the fact that many Houstonians spend a significant amount of time indoors in air conditioning, which can disrupt natural vitamin D production, further impacting arginine metabolism.

Why it matters: Arginine deficiency can manifest as fatigue, muscle weakness, and impaired immune function – all things you definitely don’t want during a Houston summer.

So, how do we combat this? Dietary strategies are key.

Watermelon: This summer staple is not only hydrating but also a good source of citrulline, which the body converts to arginine. HEB always has a mountain of watermelons during the summer.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds are all good sources of arginine. Grab a bag at Whole Foods Market.
Lean Protein: Chicken, fish, and beans provide arginine and other essential amino acids.

But sometimes, diet alone isn’t enough, especially if you’re physically active or have underlying health conditions. That’s where supplementation comes in.

L-Arginine Supplements: These are readily available at most health food stores and pharmacies, including those within HEB and Whole Foods.
Citrulline Supplements: As mentioned earlier, citrulline converts to arginine in the body. Some studies suggest citrulline may be even more effective than L-arginine supplementation.
Dosage: Consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine the appropriate dosage for you. A common starting point is 3-6 grams of L-arginine or citrulline per day, divided into multiple doses.
Important Note: Arginine supplements can interact with certain medications, such as blood pressure medications and nitrates. Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

Beyond diet and supplementation, consider adjusting your exercise routine. Houston’s summer heat can make outdoor workouts dangerous, increasing the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.

Time of Day: Exercise during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout. Consider adding electrolytes to your water to replace those lost through sweat.
Indoor Alternatives: Take advantage of Houston’s many air-conditioned gyms and fitness studios.
Cooling Towels: These towels, available at Academy Sports + Outdoors, can provide instant relief from the heat. Simply wet the towel, wring it out, and drape it around your neck.

Let’s talk about a specific scenario: You’re planning a day at Hermann Park. It’s a beautiful park, but it offers limited shade.

Morning: Arrive early, before the heat becomes unbearable. Apply sunscreen liberally and wear a UPF-rated shirt and hat.
Hydration: Bring a large water bottle and refill it frequently. Consider adding electrolytes.
Snacks: Pack arginine-rich snacks like almonds or a watermelon salad.
Midday: Seek shade whenever possible. Visit the Houston Zoo’s air-conditioned exhibits or take a break at the McGovern Centennial Gardens’ covered pavilion.
Afternoon: Head home before the hottest part of the day. Rehydrate and replenish electrolytes.

Common mistakes Houstonians make during the summer:

Underestimating the heat: Houston’s humidity makes the heat feel even more intense. Don’t underestimate the impact of the heat on your body.
Relying solely on air conditioning: While air conditioning provides relief, it can also dehydrate you and disrupt your body’s natural temperature regulation.
Ignoring warning signs: Pay attention to your body and stop if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or weak.
Not adjusting exercise routines: Continuing to exercise at the same intensity and duration as you would during cooler months can be dangerous.

Overcoming these challenges requires a proactive approach. It’s about understanding the specific demands Houston’s climate places on your body and taking steps to mitigate those effects. It’s about more than just surviving the summer; it’s about thriving in it.

Remember, this isn’t just generic advice. This is tailored to the unique challenges faced by Houston residents. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable summer, even in the heart of Texas. So, grab your sunscreen, stock up on watermelon, and get ready to conquer the Houston heat!