Eating for Summer: How to Stay Cool and Balanced

As the temperatures rise, so does the need to adjust our diets for the hotter months. Summer brings with it an array of specific health challenges like skin irritations, indigestion, and overheating. What we choose to eat during this season can significantly influence how we feel, react, and enjoy our summer days. Here’s a simple guide to eating smartly in the summer, ensuring your meals help rather than hinder your body’s ability to cope with the heat.

---

Hydrate Creatively

Staying hydrated is important, even more so during the summer, but who said it has to be boring? Water is ideal, but you can also incorporate other hydrating liquids into your diet. Coconut water is a stellar hydration hero, and adding a squeeze of lime not only enhances its taste but also adds a vitamin C boost.

You can also get creative and throw in some sliced cucumbers, oranges, or berries into your water for some naturally flavored fun.

Check out this blog: 10 Refreshing Recipes For Infused Water

Go Green

Leafy greens are your best friends during the summer. Foods like spinach, kale, arugula, and watercress are not only packed with nutrients but also have a high water content, which can help keep you cool. Incorporate other cooling foods like cucumbers, watermelon, cantaloupe, and fresh berries into your diet to combat the summer heat.

Choose Your Foods Wisely

What to avoid is just as important as what to consume. Overly salty, oily, fried, and spicy foods can exacerbate heat in the body, leading to discomfort. Reducing your intake of onions, garlic, and processed foods can help maintain your internal cool. Also, try to limit caffeine and alcohol, especially during peak heat times, as they can dehydrate your body.

Spice It Right

While it might seem counterintuitive, certain herbs can actually help cool down the body. Mint, cilantro, and basil not only add fresh flavors to your dishes but also offer cooling properties. Incorporating these herbs into your meals or drinks can provide a refreshing relief from the heat.

Mindful Eating Habits

Try to eat your larger meals earlier in the day when your digestive fire is stronger, and opt for lighter meals as the day cools down. Eating heavy meals close to bedtime or when it's very hot can lead to indigestion and discomfort.

Create a Comforting Atmosphere

The ambiance in which you eat can also affect how your body processes food. A calm, cool, and visually soothing dining environment can enhance your eating experience and aid your digestion.

Exercise Lightly Before Meals

Light exercise such as a gentle walk before meals can stimulate your metabolism and help your body to cool down and ready itself for digestion. Just ensure not to engage in intense physical activity during the hottest parts of the day.

By integrating these simple dietary adjustments into your summer routine, you can help your body navigate the challenges of the season more effectively. Remember, summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors and bask in the warm weather—make sure your diet supports this by keeping you cool, energized, and ready for fun!

Enjoy the summer safely and deliciously!