The best way to beat the heat and humidity of summer is to eat it! We know, we know. It’s not like we haven’t heard that one before. But trust us when we say this — this time it’s different. Summer is a great time to load up on fresh produce and try new fruits and veggies. These 10 summer foods are not only great for beating the heat but they are also loaded with nutrients that help keep your body cool and your system working optimally all season long.
1. Watermelon
Watermelon contains a lot of water, which makes it the perfect hot weather snack. It also contains antioxidants, fibre and Vitamin A, which can help keep your eyes healthy. Eating watermelon is also a great way to rehydrate when you’re feeling dehydrated from the heat. While watermelon is great to eat, it’s not the best choice to snack on if you’re trying to lose weight. Watermelon is high in natural sugars and calories. If you’re trying to lose weight, try eating smaller portions of watermelon and balancing it out with healthier snacks like vegetables and nuts. Watermelon can also be used as a dessert replacement. Watermelon popsicles are a great way to beat the heat, especially for kids. It’s easy to make watermelon popsicles at home using watermelon, honey and lime juice. Just blend the watermelon with the honey and lime juice until the watermelon is pureed and pour the mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until solid and enjoy!
2. Leafy greens
As the weather gets hotter, salads are the best thing to eat. They are cooling but very fulfilling and healthy. Some of the best vegetables to eat in the summer heat are spinach, lettuce, Swiss chard, and Asian greens like bok choy and pak choy. Salad greens are great for beating the heat because they have a lot of water in them and are low in calories, making them a perfect choice for those on a diet. Try adding salad greens to soups and stews. Not only will it add flavour, but it will help keep you hydrated when it’s extra hot outside.
3. Frozen fruits
Fruits are naturally cooling, so they make the perfect summer food. The problem is that they are also high in sugar and, if eaten in excess, can cause weight gain. Frozen fruits are the perfect alternative to fresh fruits because they don’t have any added sugar so you can avoid the extra calories and sugar without losing out on flavour or nutritional benefits. Frozen fruits are also cheaper than fresh fruits, and they can be kept in your freezer for whenever you need them. Frozen fruits are good for you because they contain antioxidants and vitamins that help keep your body healthy and fight off diseases. Frozen fruits are also a great source of fibre, which helps you feel full and can lower your cholesterol. They are also low in calories so they won’t make you gain weight. Try adding frozen fruits to yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods to give them a boost and make them healthier. You can also eat frozen fruits by themselves as a healthy snack.
4. Beans and legumes
Beans and legumes are not just for protein — they’re also great at cooling off your body. They are high in fibre and protein and help keep your body cool and hydrated. They are also a good source of iron and magnesium, which help regulate your heartbeat, which can increase during the summer months. Eating beans and legumes is also a good way to reduce high blood pressure. All beans and legumes are good for you, but fava beans and chickpeas are especially cooling. Try adding fava beans and chickpeas to salads or eat them on their own for a refreshing summer snack. You can also try making a cold salad with beans and legumes, which is a great way to enjoy the summer weather.
5. Dark leafy greens
While salad greens are great for beating the summer heat, dark leafy greens are even better. They are even more cooling and provide even more benefits than the salad greens. Try adding spinach, kale and collard greens to your salads or make them into a smoothie bowl. You can also eat them on their own as a snack or side dish. Beans and legumes are great, but if you really want to cool off your body, dark leafy greens are the way to go. Dark leafy greens are high in iron, calcium, vitamin C, and fibre. They also contain other important nutrients that help keep your body healthy and cool. They are also low in calories and fat. Eating dark leafy greens is a great way to stay cool during the summer and keep your body healthy.
6. Canned fish: Tuna, salmon and sardines
Canned fish like tuna, salmon, and sardines are great for beating the heat because they contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are cooling. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for heart health, but they also help your body regulate its temperature and stay cool in the summer. They also contain smaller amounts of protein and vitamin D, which are also good for cooling your body. Canned fish is also cheap and easy to add to salads or eat as a side dish. If you’re not a fan of eating canned fish, you can also find omega-3 supplements that you can add to water or juice to get all the benefits of the fatty acids without having to eat canned fish. Another option is to eat fresh fish like salmon and tuna, which also contains omega-3 fatty acids.
7. Whole grains
Whole grains like quinoa, wild rice, and barley are great for beating the heat. They are naturally cooling and full of fibre, which helps your body stay hydrated. Whole grains are also a good source of protein, which is important for staying full and satisfied. They are also a good source of iron and magnesium, which we talked about earlier. Whole grains are best served with a salad or as a side dish. You can also add them to baked goods, yogurt, or oatmeal for an extra kick. Quinoa, barley, and wild rice are ideal for beating the heat and staying hydrated.
8. Pumpkin and other squashes
Squashes like pumpkin and butternut squash are great for beating the heat because they are cooling, full of water, and have lots of fibre. Squashes are good for regulating your body temperature, so they make a great summer food. They are also a good source of vitamin A and C, which are antioxidants that help keep your body healthy and fight off diseases. Squashes are best served roasted or baked. You can also try making a smoothie with them or adding them to salads and soups. Squashes are also great in pies or baked goods because they add a delicious flavour and sweetness.
9. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are great for beating the heat because they are full of healthy fats that help your body stay hydrated and cool. Nuts and seeds are also a good source of protein and fibre. They are especially good for people who are on a diet because they are low in calories and contain mostly healthy fats. Nuts and seeds are great for snacking on or adding to baked goods. They are also great in salads or yogurts. You can also try baking with nuts or seeds as a healthy way to make your baked goods more summery.
10. Conclusion
All of the foods discussed in this article are great for beating the heat in the summer. Eating these foods is a great way to stay hydrated and cool off your body. These foods are also healthy and contain lots of nutrients that keep your body healthy and strong during the hot summer months. So get ready for summer by loading up on these cooling foods and staying healthy and hydrated all season long.
