Beat the Heat: 8 Foods and Drinks You Should Avoid This Summer to Stay Cool and Hydrated

As temperatures soar across the country, health experts advise caution over dietary choices to avoid fatigue, dehydration, and digestive discomfort.

With summer in full swing, consuming heavy or heat-generating foods can adversely affect health. Nutritionists recommend steering clear of certain items that may raise internal body temperature, cause dehydration, or lead to sluggishness. Here’s a list of foods and drinks best avoided during hot weather:

1. Fried and Greasy Foods

Items like samosas, pakoras, French fries, and burgers are high in fat and difficult to digest. They increase internal heat, often leading to bloating and lethargy. Steamed or baked alternatives are healthier options during summer.

2. Spicy Curries and Hot Chillies

Ingredients such as red chilli, black pepper, and garam masala generate excessive heat in the body, potentially causing skin breakouts, sweating, and dehydration. Opt for milder preparations using cooling ingredients like yogurt and mint.

3. Caffeinated Beverages

Coffee, tea, and energy drinks contain caffeine, a diuretic that promotes water loss. Excessive consumption can lead to headaches, fatigue, and dehydration. Herbal teas or coconut water are better choices for hydration.

4. Red Meat

Heavy meats like mutton and beef require more time and energy to digest, which may elevate body temperature. Lighter proteins such as fish, eggs, or tofu are easier on the digestive system during summer.

5. Sugary and Carbonated Drinks

Though temporarily refreshing, sodas and sweetened beverages contribute to dehydration due to their high sugar content. Healthier options include lemon water, fresh fruit juices, and buttermilk.

6. Pickles and Preserved Foods

These items often contain high levels of salt and spice, disrupting the body’s hydration levels and increasing thirst. A high sodium intake can also raise blood pressure in the heat.

7. Excessive Cold Desserts

While ice cream and similar treats offer instant relief from the heat, overconsumption can trigger digestive discomfort or sore throats. Enjoy cold desserts in moderation and balance them with other nourishing foods.

8. Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates the body and impairs temperature regulation, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion. If consumed, it should be accompanied by plenty of water and in limited quantities.

Experts emphasize that eating light, seasonal, and hydrating meals is key to staying healthy and energized during the summer months.