Right now, most of India, be it any geographical terrain, is witnessing severe and scorching summer heat, accompanied by humid weather conditions. The heatwaves, also known as Loo in India, are getting more severe every day.
The weather changes frequently which warrants changing your diet too. In summer, meals should be light and refreshing that also helps you to stay hydrated, says dietician Avni.
It is important to drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables that are high in water content. These will help you to counter this scorching Indian summer and stay fit.
Top dietician Avni Kaul recommends certain foods that will keep you and your family hydrated this summer.
Lemon –Nimbu Paani is everyone’s favorite summer drink. It quenches your thirst and helps to beat the heat. Lemon drinks are refreshing and are excellent for strengthening immunity and preventing dehydration. During this summer season, make sure to drink lot of lemon juice. You can also add lemons to several foods for that extra tangy flavor.
Cucumber –When one talks about everyday foods that help you stay hydrated, cucumber stands tall. It is the best hydrating food available. It is easy to digest, keeps your skin healthy, and provides the body with a fresh dose of energy. During summer, eat it regularly with your daily meals. You can make a delicious tomato and cucumber salad in a few minutes.
Green beans –Green beans are nutritious, low in calories, and are a good source of vitamin K, manganese, fiber, and vitamin C. They also keep you hydrated.
Bottle gourd (Lauki) –Lauki or bottle gourd is nutritious and has several health benefits. It is easy to digest and is good for the stomach. It consists of nearly 96% water. If you do not enjoy the curry, you can drink its juice in the morning by adding pineapple and orange to make it tastier.
Corn –Corn is a good source of potassium, lutein, fibre, and antioxidants. It is known to be good for your eye health and regulating blood circulation. Several people often face the problem of indigestion during summers and the high fibre content of corn is an excellent solution for it. Also, the antioxidants available in it could prevent inflammation.
Curd – Filled with richness of healthy bacteria such as lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, curd and other fermented eatables help to keep the gut health optimal during the summer. You can have curd in several forms, like lassi, chaach, raita, etc. Besides acting as a cooling agent for your digestive system, Curd is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Avni Kaul is Founder of Nutriactivania with Masters Degree in Food and Nutrition from University of Delhi and is also a Certified Diabetes Educator from Project Hope and International Diabetes Federation. She is a Leicester Mammas Ambassador trained in Lactation Counselling with NHS United Kingdom. Mammas support pregnant and new mothers and their families. Specializations of Avni Kaul Include Infant and Young Child Feeding Practises, Pre and Post natal diets, Fat loss, Muscle Gain and Holistic Health and Nutrition