Beat the Heat: Summer Foods to include in your diet!

Summer's just around the corner, and with it comes with scorching sunshine, lazy pool days, and...dehydration. But fear not, fellow sun-seekers! Mother Nature has equipped us with a delicious defense against this summertime foe- a vibrant army of water-rich foods ready to keep you hydrated and cool.

1. Watermelon

This picnic favourite isn't just delicious, it's a hydration powerhouse! Watermelon boasts a whopping 92% water content, making it a juicy way to replenish fluids lost through sweat. Plus, it contains a small amount of electrolytes like potassium, which further aids in hydration balance.

Did you know sweating is your body's way of regulating temperature? As sweat evaporates from your skin, it creates a cooling effect. Watermelon's high water content helps your body produce sweat more efficiently, keeping you cool and refreshed.

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2. Cucumber

This cool, crisp veggie is more than just a salad filler. Cucumbers are 96% water, making them a fantastic source of hydration. They're also a natural source of silica, a mineral that promotes healthy skin- perfect for combating the drying effects of summer heat.

Cucumbers contain cucurbitacin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. So next time you munch on cucumber slices, you're not just hydrating, you're potentially giving your body a soothing boost too!

3. Tomatoes

Tomatoes aren't just for ketchup! These versatile fruits (yes, they're technically fruits!) are 94% water, making them a delicious way to stay hydrated. They're also a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that can help protect your skin from sun damage- a crucial perk for those long summer days.

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Pair your tomatoes with a healthy fat source like olive oil or avocado. This helps your body absorb the lycopene more effectively, maximizing its sun-protective benefits.

4. Berries

From juicy strawberries to plump blueberries, these antioxidant powerhouses are more than just delicious. Berries boast an impressive 85-92% water content, making them a sweet and refreshing way to stay hydrated. They're also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by the sun's UV rays.

Studies suggest that berries might improve cognitive function and memory. So next time you reach for a handful, you're not just hydrating, you're potentially giving your brain a summer boost!

5. Soup's On (Even in Summer!)

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Who says soup is just for winter? Cold soup, made with tomatoes, cucumbers, and other water-rich vegetables, is a refreshing and hydrating way to beat the heat. Broths and light vegetable soups can also be excellent choices, providing fluids and essential electrolytes.

Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to your soups or water for an extra refreshing twist and a boost of vitamin C.

Consult our Gytree experts if you seem to be experiencing any symptoms of dehydration. Remember, hydration is key to a healthy and enjoyable summer. By incorporating these water-rich foods into your diet, you can stay cool, refreshed, and ready to conquer all your summer adventures!