The infamous Indian summer has made a high-score opening and the rise in mercury is sapping out our energy level. We are what we eat; and as the heat wave grips the country, it is time to alter our food habits for the season. Include these top 10 foods in your diet to beat the heat this summer.
1. Watermelon
Fruit of the season has already hit the market. Watermelon contains substantial amount of Vitamin C and Vitamin B6 (Folic acid) that are water soluble vitamins which your body tends to loose due to perspiration and loss of fluids during summer. The potassium in watermelon helps maintain the fluid balance. This amazing vine fruit is beneficial for your skin and hair too.
2. Buttermilk / Chaas
The good old dahi ki chaas with a pinch of cumin powder, replenishes the fluids in the body and keeps the gut in good health. It balances the stomach acids and brings down the body heat.
3. Sabja / Sweet Basil seeds / Tukmaria
You have had this in falooda or mastani. How about adding one spoon of sabja in the water bottle be it in gym, office or specially when travelling. Soak two spoons of sabja in lukewarm water. Let is rest for half hour and add this to sherbet, cold milk, or just plain water. These seeds are loaded with good soluble fibers and are beneficial in weight loss, controlling acidity and blood sugar level.
4. Coconut water
One of nature’s wonders, this sweet nutritious refreshing nectar inside the hard fibrous shell is a must-have. Loaded with minerals, enzymes and antioxidants, coconut water is more hydrating than normal water. Sip this early morning and your body fluids will be balanced throughout the day.
5. Lemon
Put aside the chai or coffee and adopt Lemon water for the next couple of months. Two drops of lemon juice with plain water early morning cleanses the stomach and wakes up the organs. Have a glass full of refreshing Lemon Sherbet with a pinch of roasted cumin powder and black salt during breaks. The vitamin-C will boost immunity and also maintain the blood pressure level.
6. Fennel Seeds or Sauf
Majorly an under-rated food, fennel seeds or sauf is more than just a mouth-freshener. Soak 2-3 spoons of fennel seeds with coriander seeds overnight. Strain the water in the morning, add a spoonful of honey and drink this excellent potion. It immediately cools the body from inside, cures heat stroke and keeps your skin fresh and hydrated.
7. Kokum
This dark purple plum like fruit is actually the dried version of bright red fruits which are extremely tangy. It is available in the market in the form of squash or syrup. Add required quantity of this syrup to a glass of water and have it every day this summer. Kokum juice restores the body nutrients, improves appetite, purifies blood and maintains the alkaline balance in the body.
8. Aam Panna
Mangoes are yet to ripen which means raw mangoes are available in plenty. Made from a squash of steamed raw mangoes this healthy drink also contains cardamom, jaggery and salt. Lip-smacking delicious, aam panna is an appetizer, good source of vitamin B & C and the best remedy for heat strokes.
9. Cumin Seeds or Jeera
A common kitchen spice, cumin seeds are rich in iron and boost immunity. Take a tea-spoon of jeera with equal amount of sugar. Chew this mixture for a while and gulp it with a glass of water. This will flush toxins out of the kidneys, aid smooth digestion, restore electrolytes and also eradicate bad breath.
10. Cucumber
Like a best friend, cucumber compliments every meal. Be it breakfast, lunch or dinner cucumber should be an integral part of the meal. Have it sliced, grated, juiced or chopped. Add it in curd or have it with a pinch of chaat masala. Cucumber is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B, minerals and enzymes. It soothes the skin, retains fluid in the body and fights the heat.
A healthy diet and a calm mind will help you sail through this summer.
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