Summer has arrived along with the sweltering heat. As the scorching sun beats down on us, we long for some respite. Heatwaves can leave us feeling parched, weary, and in dire need of refreshment. Fear not, for there are a plethora of delicious and nutritious foods that can help you beat the heat and keep you cool as a cucumber. Delhi’s leading dietician Avni Kaul shares a healthy diet that will help you beat the scorching heat this summer.
Coconut water:
Coconut water is a refreshing and hydrating drink that cools the body down due to its high water content. It’s packed with electrolytes, which replenish the body and prevent dehydration. It is naturally sweet and low in calories, making it an ideal summertime drink. It is rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity and reduces inflammation in the body.
Juicy Melons:
These succulent fruits are the perfect antidote to a sweltering day. Watermelon with it’s high water content (above 90%) is an ideal summer drink that is refreshing. It cleanses the kidneys and bladder. Being rich in Vitamin B, electrolytes, and potassium, watermelon is a natural energy drink. Muskmelon is another summer fruit that reduces body heat and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It improves digestion, reduces inflammation, and boosts immunity. The high carotenoid content of muskmelon prevents cancer. Slice it up or make smoothies, salads, or desserts. Melons contain lycopene that can protect your skin against sunburn.
Curd:
There’s nothing as refreshing as a dollop of creamy, tangy curd that keeps you feeling fresh and breezy even when the sun beats down with a vengeance. Packed with probiotics and other essential nutrients, the curd is good for immunity and digestive health. Whip up a delicious raita to accompany your spicy biryani or relish a bowl of dahi with your morning parathas. You can also indulge in a sweet lassi or a savoury chaas or buttermilk, (a traditional Indian drink made by mixing curd and water mixed with a few spices to enhance its flavour) to quench your thirst and nourish your soul.
Cucumber:
This cool and crunchy humble vegetable is a true blessing on scorching summer days. Being a good source of fiber, vitamins, folic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, it can prevent constipation, remove toxins from the body, and keep you hydrated during the hot summer. Cucumbers are over 90% water, making them an excellent source of hydration. You can slice them up and put them in a cold salad, blend them into a refreshing smoothie, or use them to make a cooling face mask. It keeps you cool from within.
Herbs and Spices:
Try incorporating cooling herbs and spices into your meals. Mint, cilantro, fennel, and dill are all great options that can help regulate your body temperature and aid digestion. Whip up a refreshing cucumber and mint salad or infuse your water with slices of lemon and ginger for a zingy twist. Drink a glass of fennel water before leaving the house to guard yourself from sunstroke and keep yourself cool.
Bael or Bengal Quince:
This popular summer fruit is known to reduce body heat. It is traditionally used as a remedy for heat-related illnesses. It is high in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals which help to reduce inflammation, cool the body, and improve digestion.
Let the summer not take away our energy and enthusiasm. Let us soak up the warmth of the sun and the beauty of the season while taking care of our bodies and minds.
