It’s the outdoor season again and whew – we are hot! Even as we appreciate those gusts of winds in these long, lazy days – thank you, Lord! – be aware this weather can take a toll on our health and mood. The best way to beat the heat is to stay hydrated, and one way to do that is by savouring some of your favourite foods. 

 

Fresh vegetables

Remember when you were younger your parents forced you to eat your vegetables? Let’s assume that's because they knew of the cooling, nutritious properties of the greens. So, go easy on the consumption of meat and opt for some fresh raw vegetables. These are high in water, which makes them a great option to cool the body. Veggies are also easier to digest than meat and light on the stomach. 

 

Lime

Usually, sour, round, and light, this citrus fruit is an ideal heat cooling agent. A tall glass of limeade on a white-hot day does more than wet a parched throat. Limes are nutritional powerhouses packed with vitamin c, antioxidants, and other nutrients. Combined with mint, another top choice for reducing body temperature, limes become more powerful than you can imagine.

 

Ice cream

Life is better with ice cream! Well, maybe not for all of us. The high summer temperatures often call for something cold and many of you are tempted to indulge in the soft, sweet frozen treat that’s made from milk and cream, despite having a rigid meal plan. Do it anyway. Ice cream is a recommended treatment for the summer blues that are brought on by the oppressive heat.

 

Coconut water

Coconuts cool the body from the inside and quench summer’s never-ending thirst. Thanks to the minerals, electrolytes and vitamins in the fruit, coconut water helps the body hydrate naturally. It also helps the body resolve stomach issues, increase blood circulation, and prevent kidney stones.

 

Cucumber

Cucumbers are 95 per cent of water, which explains why they are super hydrating. However you consume them, whether sliced, treaded, or juiced, they will help the body keep cool in the sweaty days in the punishing heat.

 

Watermelon

Watermelon, a quintessential summer fruit, is mostly water, incredibly cooling and hydrating. It’s one of the best-loved fruits that can be enjoyed in several ways: juice it, add it to your salad, freeze it into ice cubes, grill it over barbecue, or make popsicles. Watermelons also helps your body to rid itself of toxins.