For many of us summers can be a time for discomfort and unease. With temperatures rising to unbearable levels, it's essential to keep your body cool and comfortable. While turning up the air conditioning or taking a dip in the pool might provide temporary relief, your diet can be a powerful tool to regulate your body temperature during summers. Here are seven reasons why your diet can play a crucial role in keeping you cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
Hydration Is Key
Drinking plenty of water is essential for regulating body temperature during the summer. When you're dehydrated, your body struggles to regulate its temperature, leading to discomfort and even heat exhaustion. Keep a water bottle with you at all times and sip on it regularly throughout the day. You can also consume water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and celery to help stay hydrated.
Also read: Heat Stroke: What Is It And How To Prevent It
Incorporate Cooling Foods
Certain foods can help cool your body from the inside out. Foods like mint, cilantro, and parsley have natural cooling properties and can be added to salads, smoothies, and other dishes to help lower your body temperature. Other cooling foods include yoghourt, coconut water, and citrus fruits like lemons and limes.
Choose light Meals
Heavy, high-fat meals can increase your body temperature, making you feel uncomfortable and sluggish. Instead, choose light, refreshing meals that won't weigh you down. Salads, fresh fruits, and grilled fish or chicken are excellent choices for hot summer days.
Stay Away From Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can increase your body temperature, causing you to feel even hotter during the summer months. Instead, choose mild, cooling dishes that won't cause your body to overheat.
Spicy foods increase the metabolism rate of the body and this increases the net temperature.
Also read: 6 Healthy Ice Creams To Make At Home To Beat The Summer Heat
Stay Away From Caffeine And Alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate your body, making it harder to regulate your temperature. Avoid these drinks during the hottest parts of the day and opt for water or natural fruit juices instead.
Herbs Can Beat The Heat
Certain herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and cumin can help regulate body temperature and reduce inflammation. Add these herbs and spices to your meals to give your body a natural cooling boost.
Be Mindful Of Your Salt Intake
Consuming too much salt can lead to dehydration, making it harder for your body to regulate its temperature. Be mindful of your salt intake and choose low-sodium options whenever possible.
Your diet plays a significant role in regulating your body temperature during summers. By incorporating cooling foods, staying hydrated, choosing light meals, and avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, you can keep your body cool and comfortable even on the hottest days. So, the next time you reach for an ice cream cone or a cold soda, remember that your diet can be a powerful tool for staying cool and comfortable during the summer months
