Summer Foods to Beat the Heat!

The scorching summer heat can take a toll on your energy and vitality but only if you are unprepared. Follow these tips to beat the heat, stay cool and still enjoy the outdoors.

Here are some summer foods, which will keep you cool and calm in this very hot weather.

1. Watermelon

The juicy watermelon is a rich source of Vitamin A and C. It does a great job to replenish lost fluids for the body during summer.

• A glass of watermelon juice or 5-6 pieces of the fruit is recommended after lunch and dinner.

2. Cucumber

The phrase ‘cool as a cucumber’ explains it all. Cucumber is high in water content and is extremely helpful to beat the scorching summer heat.

3. Cool Fruits

Fruits that have high water content, and are loaded with essential nutrients and antioxidants, are your best bet to stay cool this summer. These include grapes, apples, pears, peaches, berries, dragon fruit and star fruit, but especially watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew melon as well as citrus fruits like oranges. Fruits can be added into your diet in so many different ways.

• Simply toss them into a salad, whiz them with milk or yogurt for a healthy smoothie or eat them raw for a mid-morning snack.

4. Yogurt

This probiotic not only keeps gastrointestinal problems at bay, but also keeps the digestive system in check during summer.

• Eat yogurt topped with summer fruits or nuts for added energy and to stay hydrated.

5. Green Beans

The succulent green beans are a great source of Omega-3 fats. They are also rich in fiber and can help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

6. Mint

Fresh mint can be grown in the garden and provides an instant cooling sensation. It’s a zero-calorie food that will freshen up any drink or snack.

7. Hot Peppers

“Ironically, spicy foods are a great way to beat the heat. Eating something that will cause sweating, nature’s way of cooling us down, will allow you to withstand the sun,” Zuckerbrot said. Sweating can lead to dehydration, though, so make sure to consume substantial water throughout the day.

8. Salads

Staying hydrated is the key to keeping cool. Lettuce is 95 percent water so it keeps you both cool and hydrated.

• Throw some cucumbers on top, which are 96 percent water, and you’ve found the ideal summer meal.

9. Chilled Out Veggies

There is an abundant supply of vegetables that can help lower body temperature when the heat soars. The best examples are cucumber, radishes, lettuce and leafy greens such as spinach, and fresh herbs such as mint. They all contain a significant amount of water and assist your body to release heat, which has a cooling effect. There are a myriad of ways to incorporate these vegetables into your diet. Simply toss them into a vibrant summer salad.

10. Choose Your Liquids Wisely

Staying fully hydrated by drinking plenty of water is essential in the hot summer months. Many symptoms of excess summer heat (dizziness, fatigue, lack of concentration) are attributable to chronic dehydration. However, the type of liquid you drink is of immense importance.