It is peak summer in most parts of India, and the rising temperature increases the risk of dehydration, skin burn, fever and infections if there is a lack of proper food habits. Following a seasonal diet will ensure the right supply of nutritional content to your body. Nature is very powerful and it provides with the right choices of foods which are fresh and have higher nutritional content than fruits and vegetables that are out of season.
Don’t be alarmed by the hearsays about avoiding the seasonal foods such as eating mangoes might cause heat boils. It absolutely does not cause any harm and only creates great memories! We are so lucky to have the best produce in this season which will not only provide your body with all the essential vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants or phytochemicals but also, helps you be hydrated well and cools down your body. They can help you enjoy a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables like cucumber, mango, melon varieties, jackfruit and berries. Cherish these instead of grabbing an ice cream or a chilled packaged beverage for it not only helps enhance the natural cleansing and healing abilities of our system but cuts down a lot of empty calories too!
Mindful food choices in Summer:Summer and Nutrition
Coping tips to deal with the stressful heat:
– Hydrate well. Water is very important for your system especially during summer to combat dehydration issues. You can also enjoy easy summer drinks like aam panna, coriander seeds or rebel seeds water, lemon mint water, tender coconut. Avoid aerated or packaged beverages.
-Control your portions. Most people will have less appetite during summer or will feel like having light foods. So, plan and have frequent small meals to ensure right nutrition to your body.
-Avoid trendy diets and enjoy seasonal produce that are locally available which will benefit you better.
-Avoid excessive caffeine, tea, coffee and alcohol as these tend to promote dehydration.
-Avoid deep fried, fast foods and spicy foods. Instead add Ginger, pepper, asafoetida, cumin or fennel seeds to your dishes for the punch and these will also help with digestive issues that are common in summer.
Also, check out some refreshing dishes from our instagram page or recipes column to Summer and Nutrition and enjoy the season’s relish.
