As temperatures rise and the summer sun beats down, finding relief becomes a top priority. While staying hydrated with water is crucial, sometimes it's not enough.
Enter body cooling foods – nature's way of keeping you comfortable and healthy during the sweltering summer months.
Signs of internal heat
When your body temperature starts to climb, it can manifest in various signs:
- Body pain and inflammation: Aches and pains become more pronounced.
- Pulsating heartbeat, swelling, and redness: Your body signals distress.
- Acid reflux, stomach bloating, etc.: Digestive issues become more common.
- Irritability, agitation, aggression, anger: Emotions run high as the body struggles.
- Anxiety, impulsiveness, recklessness: Mental states can be affected by heat.
Here's a carefully curated list of 13 body cooling foods that can work wonders for you:
Cucumber: This humble vegetable instantly hydrates and reduces body heat, says nutritionist Rashmi Khullar, who also runs an organic juice brand Nourish Body. You can enjoy cucumber as a salad, with a dip, or as a refreshing juice with ginger and lemon.
Melons: Watermelon and musk melons are juicy and packed with essential nutrients. They hydrate the body and provide Vitamin B, magnesium, potassium, and fibre, says Khullar.
Leafy greens: Spinach, lettuce, Amaranth, Chinese cabbage, and kale are nutrient powerhouses. Add them to smoothies, salads, or enjoy as a side dish for a cooling effect.
Buttermilk: A traditional Indian summer drink that's beneficial for hydration and digestion. You can enhance its flavour with roasted cumin seeds, fresh coriander, and ginger.
Mango: This versatile fruit aids digestion, cools the body, and boosts energy levels. Enjoy it raw, as Aam Panna, in chutneys, or as part of curries.
Lemon: Boosts the immune system with a healthy dose of Vitamin C. Enjoy it as lemonade or add a dash to juices and salads for a refreshing zing.
Curd and Yoghurt: Rich in calcium and gut-friendly bacteria, they are a perfect summer alternative. Mix with mangoes, strawberries, or enjoy as a delicious Shrikhand.
Fish: This is a protein-packed option that generates less internal heat than heavy meats. You can enjoy the benefits of good fatty acids without feeling uncomfortably full.
Avocado: Loaded with mono-saturated fatty acids that help remove heat and toxins, avocados are easily digested, sparing your body from excess heat production.
Coconut: Filled with electrolytes, coconut water keeps you hydrated and cool. Rich in essential nutrients for energy and improved digestive capacity.
Chamomile: It soothes the body, eases insomnia, and calms anxiety. Chamomile is also great for skin health with its antioxidant properties.
Mint: It neutralises heat effects and has a cooling sensation. Mint is perfect in beverages or added to salads for a refreshing twist.
Onions: A natural anti-allergen containing quercetin for a cooling effect, onions help balance the body temperature and fights inflammation.
Tips for incorporating body cooling foods
To ensure you enjoy a variety of cooling foods in your diet, consider these tips:
- Include sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes daily for a balanced diet, says Khullar.
- Opt for raw foods over processed options whenever possible.
- Eat regular, smaller, and lighter meals with an emphasis on fruits and veggies.
- Incorporate non-starchy vegetables into dips, smoothies, and salads.
- Try liquid-based meals like vegetable smoothies and soups for a cooling effect.
- Avoid stimulants such as alcohol and coffee, which can raise body heat.
- Start your day with a bowl of fresh fruits for a nutritious breakfast.
- Make curd a staple in your daily diet for its cooling and probiotic benefits.
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