As summer heat intensifies, it’s easy to feel zapped of energy and weighed down by soaring temperatures. Beyond the usual advice of drinking water and munching on fruits, there are lesser-known nutritional strategies to keep you refreshed, lively, and thriving this season. Dieticians Dr. Ridhima Khamesra and Dr. Simrat Kathuria reveal their expert insights on how to conquer the heat with savvy food choices.
Hydration That Goes the Extra Mile
Dr. Khamesra stresses that hydration isn’t just about guzzling water—some fluids outshine others. Herbal iced teas like peppermint, hibiscus, and lemongrass double as refreshing coolants and antioxidant powerhouses. Hibiscus tea, in particular, cools the body while supporting healthy blood pressure. Dr. Kathuria complements this by recommending natural electrolyte replenishers like coconut water, tangy lemon water, and homemade buttermilk to restore balance after sweating it out in the sun. Eating Smart in Summer
Light Proteins and Cooling Bites
Forget heavy meats like beef or pork, which crank up your internal thermostat during digestion. Dr. Khamesra advocates for lighter proteins such as yogurt, lentils, and fish—gentle on the stomach and cooling by nature. Dr. Kathuria urges piling your plate with summer stars like watermelon, muskmelon, and oranges, bursting with vitamins and hydration. Don’t skip leafy greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes either—their mineral content keeps digestion humming smoothly.
Ditch the Ice with Meals
Surprisingly, icy drinks during meals can backfire. Dr. Khamesra explains that cold liquids solidify fats in your gut, slowing digestion to a crawl. Opt for room-temperature water or herbal infusions instead to keep things moving and maximize nutrient uptake.
Dairy and Probiotics: Your Summer Allies
For a cool gut and strong immunity, both experts sing the praises of dairy and probiotics. “Curd, yogurt, and buttermilk cool you down while aiding digestion,” says Dr. Kathuria. She suggests adding probiotics to fend off tummy troubles that often flare up in the heat.
Skip the Caffeine and Sugar Trap
Iced lattes and sodas might tempt you, but Dr. Kathuria warns they dehydrate rather than refresh. Swap them for herbal teas or fruit-infused water to stay cool without the crash.
Sync Meals with the Sun
Dr. Khamesra’s pro tip? Time your meals with the sun’s rhythm. Save hearty dishes for dawn or dusk, and go light at lunch to dodge that midday slump when the heat peaks.
Herbs That Chill
Mint and fennel seeds are summer’s secret weapons. Dr. Khamesra suggests tossing mint into drinks and salads for a burst of freshness, while chewing fennel seeds post-meal boosts digestion and banishes bad breath. With these tricks, you’ll breeze through summer feeling unstoppable.
