The body needs to cool down or maintain its temperature during hot weather to function well. One of the most delicious ways to beat the heat is to consume foods and beverages that regulate body temperatures. By doing so, you will keep yourself fresh and cool, stay fit and obtain the necessary energy levels to perform day-to-day functions.
Fruit Salads
Fruits are sources of fluids that keep bodies hydrated in hot weather. Dehydration is a major concern when temperatures are hot. It is essential to drink enough fluids to keep body organs working well. Watermelons, for example, are made up of 92% water and laden with electrolytes making them ideal food for the summer months. In addition, these fruits contain valuable minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. They also reduce ankle blood pressure according to a study published in the American Journal of Hypertension. Other fruits in the same family as watermelons include cantaloupes and honeydew melons. Coconut water and pomegranates also work well to reduce body heat and cool it down in addition to providing important vitamins and minerals.
Vegetables
Eating light meals composed of vegetables assists in helping bodies cope with heat stress. Cold soups such as gazpacho are light and ideal for the warm months. One of the main ingredients of this soup are cucumbers. These are known for their cooling and hydrating effect. They are composed of 95% water and are low in fat, sodium and calories, making cucumbers suitable for light meals such as salads and soups. Besides, they are rich in vitamins K (for good bone health), C, A and minerals (folate, thiamine, riboflavin).
A refreshing recipe that you can easily prepare is red quinoa salad. It is light yet packed with proteins and vitamins that will take you through the day.
Red Quinoa Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of red quinoa
- 4 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of virgin olive oil
- 1 cucumber pitted and peeled
- 1 tablespoon lemon
- 1 medium-sized tomato, diced
- Sprig of cilantro and Italian parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil the quinoa until cooked or the water has evaporated.
- Cool down before adding all the ingredients. Season to taste. Chill before serving.
Hot Drinks
Drinking cold beverages or using ice in drinks can cool your body in the short-term, but this is merely a temporary fix. A better and more effective strategy is to drink hot beverages that will not only heat your bodies, but also make you sweat.
Spicy Meals
Consuming spicy meals or those spiked with chili peppers and ginger might be the last thing on your mind when the hot weather is killing you. However, sweating is the best way to cool the body when temperatures are soaring. Studies shows that eating spicy foods can help you achieve this cooling effect.
Hot weather takes a heavy toll on a person’s physical and mental condition. By taking the necessary precautions and consuming food & drinks that cool the body, it is possible to enjoy warm days without overheating or suffering from the effects of dehydration.
