With the rising temperatures, the searing sun has the ability to completely deplete us of our energy. The more we disregard this, the more we put our bodies at risk. During the summer months, many people become dehydrated, which further leads to poor energy. As a result, it is critical that we exercise particular caution throughout the summer months. We can combat the harmful effects of summer by eating well and making certain lifestyle modifications. We've compiled a list of cooling foods that you should include in your diet to combat the heat.
1. Celery
Celery has critical nutrients that keep you going during hot weather, thanks to its 95 per cent water content. Sodium, iron, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc are all abundant in celery. For best results, boil the celery before consuming it as it keeps the nutrients intact. You can also add celery to soups, juice and salads for added taste.
2. Curd
Curd has a cooling impact on the body in addition to being delicious. A cup of fat-free curd could contain more than 98 calories and 11 g of protein.
A cup of fat-free curd contains the same amount of vitamins as a cup of milk, which is eight per cent vitamin B12 and 2 per cent vitamin A. In terms of other qualities, a cup of fat-free curd contains around 8 per cent calcium, 15 per cent sodium, two per cent magnesium, and two per cent potassium.
Curd also comes in a variety of flavours. Make a sweet lassi or a hot buttermilk. You can also make raita and serve it alongside your meal. Curd can also be eaten by mixing it with seasonal fruits or producing delectable smoothies.
3. Cucumber
Cucumbers are high in fibre and can help prevent constipation in the summer. Cucumbers have a lot of water in them as well. So, consume this crunchier eatable to keep cool in the summer heat. You can have it as is or with salad, or add it to sandwiches or as an accompaniment to curries and stews. You could also slice up the cucumber and add it to a bottle of water, which will give it a slight flavour, while also helping you stay refreshed.
4. Melons
Melons are fantastic to consume throughout the summer since they are high in water content. Additionally, it is a rich source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium. They keep you hydrated and provide a cold and refreshing sensation. The best way to consume it is to cut it up, and have it for either breakfast or an evening snack, or to make a smoothie out of it.
5. Onion
You might be shocked to learn that onions have cooling effects as well. It contains vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin B6. Red onions are high in quercetin, which is a natural anti-allergen. If you don't want to eat them raw, combine them with lemon and salt and put them in salads. Another way to consume onion is to include it in veggies, curries, and raita. Including onions in your everyday diet can also assist to prevent you from heat-stroke.
6. Watermelon
Watermelon is a popular summer fruit for good reason. It helps to meet your body's water requirements because it includes 91.45 per cent water. In addition, the other nutrients present in watermelon are magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and vitamins B1, B3, and B6. Watermelon also has anti-oxidant qualities and provides a pleasant cooling sensation. You can make a summer salad but adding some feta cheese to a bowl of diced watermelons, or juice it to drink it on the go.