8 Foods to Eat During a Heatwave

Summer is at the peak, and to stay safe from the heatwave consuming foods that act as a cooling agent for the body is a must.

As we can see temperature is continuously rising and heat waves are hitting us. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a red alert across states sounding a heatwave.  Red-hot sun and heatwaves turn the weather excessively hot that causes consequences on the human body. From excess dehydration, dizziness, headache, heatstroke, exhaustion-the dangers run many. Children, Elders, and pregnant women carry far more risks. We cannot change climatic conditions, but by making certain changes in our diet and lifestyle can help cut down the health risks associated with a heatwave. So, here are 8 foods to eat during a heatwave.

1.Cucumbers

Cucumber is one of the best vegetables for the hot summer days as they contain at least 95% water and plenty of nutrients like Vitamin A, B, and K, folate, very few calories that make cucumbers super healthy and it also prevent the condition of dehydration.

2. Chilies

Chilies come first in our minds when thinking of something spicy. Chilies and peppers contain capsaicin an essential active ingredient, that raises the body’s inner temperature to match the outside one this raised body temperature makes us sweat and eventually we feel cool.

          3. Curd

Curd is popular in the Indian diet and is the best cooling agent. Curd has a probiotic compound that keeps our digestion in check and prevents gastrointestinal problems caused due to excessive heat. It can be consumed in many ways like buttermilk, chaach, fruit curd, or even in curries made out of humble curd.

4. Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain lycopene (an antioxidant), vitamin-C, and have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation, swelling, or health risks that can happen with a heatstroke. Tomatoes are very hydrating as they have 94% of water.

5. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds, known as saunf are good for digestion and reduce internal body heat. The best way to have fennel seeds is to soak a handful of fennel seeds in water overnight, strain it in the morning and have the water.

6. Melons

Melons are low in calories, high in water content, and are abundant throughout the summer months. The higher water content in melons keeps our temperature down and also slows the digestion process thus taking less energy from the body. Melons are best for weight loss

7. Coconut Water

Coconut water is the best natural drink, full of electrolytes and essential minerals that restore all the nutrients our body loses after sweating. Sun exposure during a heatwave can make us dehydrated and lowers sodium and potassium levels. Coconut water helps in balancing the sodium and potassium levels in the body.

8. Lemon

Lemon is not only good for detoxification and for boosting immunity but also keeps our body cool. Make some salted lemonade with ice-cold water, add fresh lemon juice, sugar, and salt to taste. Stir until the sugar and salt is dissolved. Garnish with a slice of lime.

Other protective measures to protect ourselves from heat wave:

• We should try to stay indoors, step outside in emergencies only.
• Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
• Avoid spicy foods and have healthy and freshly prepared food only.
• To protect ourselves from sun exposure while going outdoors, we should wear sunglasses and a cap.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Always carry a bottle of water with us.
• Wear light-colour, loose-fitting, and soft material clothes.

A heatwave can be quite dangerous for us all and can cause many health problems. So we should try to include these food items in our daily diet and all protective measures to protect us from the heatwave.

Disclaimer:  This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. Jugaadin.com does not claim responsibility for this information.