Despite the heat and humidity, summer comes with a variety of delicious food options that are full of health benefits. Here are the top 10 foods for summer.
Cucumber: This ranks at number one because it 96 per cent of it is water. It keeps your body hydrated and its cooling effect helps you fight the heat. It is also a good source of fibre and of nutrients like magnesium and potassium.
Bottle Gourd: Apart from its water content, bottle gourd has lots of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, B , iron and potassium. It helps prevent heat stroke, improves the digestive system, aids efficient metabolism and also optimises the immune system in summers. And best of all it is low in calories.
Bitter Gourd: This super food balances the water level in your body. It helps lower blood sugar level, fights type-2 diabetes and improves liver health.
Watermelon: This sweet watery fruit is extremely rich in Lycopene, which is very effective in improving your heart health. Its antioxidant property helps maintain healthy skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties help reduce muscle soreness after an intense workout.
Pumpkin: Pumpkin seeds are a extremely rich source of nutrients like magnesium, zinc and potassium. Their anti-fungal property helps fight summer infections. Pumpkins are low in calories and rich in fibre and also stimulates intestinal mobility.
Curd: Its probiotic benefits introduce good bacteria into the system and improve the digestive system. It also boosts the immune system.
Amaranth: This leafy green vegetable is a rich source of iron. Its edible seeds are protein-rich and gluten-free. It helps lower bad cholesterol, improves the immune system, and regulates the digestive system. It also promotes metabolic efficiency and helps you feel active.
Lemon: This Vitamin C-rich fruit helps detox the body, improves intestinal mobility and clears mucus from the system. It also controls high blood pressure and helps in weight loss.
Rice: Gluten-free and rich in carbs, rice is a good source of energy. It does not make your muscle tissues acidic, like wheat does.
Water: The most important aspect is to keep hydrated, as one tends to lose more water due to perspiration. Drink plenty of water as this helps release toxins and prevent bladder infections.
Neeraj Mehta is a fitness expert, nutritionist and director, GFFI Fitness Academy.
neeraj.gffi@hotmail.com
