Foods that will keep you cool in the summer heat
Posted on: 01/Apr/2016 11:23:41 AM
The temperature in the city is slowly but surely inching toward the 40 degree mark. Forecasts say that it will continue to be so in the coming weeks. Hot weather is related to a number of health issues. One way to combat these is by eating right. Here are a few foods that will help you cool down this summer.
Dahi, curd or yoghurt is a staple in most homes. According to experts, it is a superfood. Says a leading nutritionist, It`s a must-have in summer as it is cooling; most lactose intolerant people can also have it. It is one of the richest sources of calcium. It presents a good source of protein and is a power source of vitamins B12 and D (if made from full fat milk). Curd is the best source of probiotics, which seems to play a role in battling many chronic diseases. You can have it in the forms of a lassi or chaas as well.
Opt for iced tea over your regular cup of chai. It is a good and healthier substitute to aerated drinks - that is, if you make it home and not mix a packeted powder! To make iced tea, brew a hot tea of your choice and let it cool. Add a few ice cubes, mint leaves, lemon slices and some fruit (strawberries etc.) to the glass.
Ironically, chillies help you stay cool. They are believed to stimulate heat receptors in the mouth. Experts say, Capsaicin in chillies triggers the body to respond as if it was in a hot environment. This increases blood circulation and makes one sweat, which helps one cool down faster. For your next meal, try and add extra red chilli flakes or pepper to your food.
Onion juice is an extremely effective way to treat a heat stroke in Ayurveda. A spoon of onion juice contains strong anti oxidants that can neutralise the ill effects of cellular damage caused by the sun. The juice can also be rubbed on to the chest to reduce body temperature. Onions can be eaten raw or added to your chutneys, dips or salads.
Watermelons are made of 90 percent water and is rich in lycopene. It is a good source of electrolytes that will help you keep hydrated in the heat by replenishing lost minerals.
Coconut water is a natural isotonic drink. It has the same electrolyte balance as in the blood in the human body. Coconut water also contains fibre, natural enzymes, iron, sodium, potassium and phosphorus.
A fun way to eat fruit and keep hydrated is by eating fruit popsicles. It is a much better alternative to one creams. Puree the fruit of your choice with water. Leave a few pieces whole. Add orange zest, a dash of ginger or lime juice. Freeze in popsicle moulds. When it is semi hard, add a stick to each one. A good option for diabetics is jamun popsicle with hokum and roasted jeera.
Plain water is the easiest and best way to stay hydrated. It carries away the heat from your internal organs, while providing energy, promoting kidney functions and preventing fluid loss. About 2 litres a day of water is the average recommendation.
Tamarind is rich in vital vitamins like thiamin, Vitamin C, Vitamin A and niacin. Say nutritionists, Lots of South Indian dishes have it. You can try tamarind juice made of the syrup with ice, honey cardamom, cloves and a few coriander seeds, to battle the heat.
