Stay Cool and Hydrated This Summer: 6 Fruits and Vegetables to Beat the Heat

As temperatures soar and the sun beats down, it’s essential to keep your body hydrated and cool during the scorching summer months. While sipping on water is crucial, did you know that certain fruits and vegetables can also help you stay hydrated? Here’s a rundown of six hydrating foods to include in your summer diet, along with some tips on what to avoid:

1. Strawberries: When the heat is on, reach for a handful of strawberries. These juicy berries are over 90 percent water, making them an excellent hydrating snack. Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, they not only refresh you but also boost your immunity and combat inflammation. Plus, their fiber content supports good gut health.

2. Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers are a summer staple for good reason. With a water content of nearly 95 percent, they’re perfect for hydration. Cucumbers also aid in detoxifying the body and rejuvenating the skin. Low in calories and high in fiber, they’re a great addition to salads or enjoyed as a snack.

3. Pineapples: The tropical sweetness of pineapples offers more than just flavor. Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, pineapples are hydrating for the skin due to their high water content. They also contain bromelain, an enzyme that supports digestion by breaking down proteins.

4. Watermelons: Nothing says summer like a juicy slice of watermelon. With its high water content, watermelon is ideal for rehydrating on hot days. Additionally, watermelons contain citrulline, a nutrient that can help regulate blood pressure and promote a sense of calmness by dilating blood vessels.

5. Eggs: Surprisingly, eggs can play a role in keeping you cool during a heatwave. They are a rich source of the amino acid tryptophan, which promotes better sleep.

6. Leafy Greens: Spinach and other dark leafy greens are hydrating (spinach is 92 percent water) and easily digestible. This can prevent the discomfort of waking up parched in the middle of a hot night.

What to Avoid:

1. Spicy Foods: While a spicy curry might be tempting, spicy foods can increase internal body temperature, leading to more sweating and discomfort. It’s best to dial down the spice levels when the mercury rises.

2. Fatty Foods: Foods high in fat can be harder to digest and may leave you feeling sluggish in hot weather. Opt for lighter, leaner options to stay comfortable and hydrated.

3. Processed Foods: Chips, cookies, and sugary snacks are high in sodium and additives, which can contribute to dehydration. Choose whole, minimally processed foods instead to support hydration and overall health.

By incorporating these hydrating fruits and vegetables into your summer diet and avoiding spicy, fatty, and processed foods, you can stay cool, hydrated, and healthy all summer long. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!