Here are 10 Easy-to-Make Summer Food Items and Drinks that can help you beat the summer heat, along with some tips to stay hydrated beyond just drinking water.
10 Easy-to-Make Summer Food Items and Drinks
1. Watermelon
– Why: High water content (over 90%) makes it incredibly hydrating.
– How: Slice and enjoy chilled, or blend into a refreshing watermelon juice.
2. Cucumber
– Why: Contains a lot of water and is low in calories.
– How: Add to salads, make cucumber sandwiches, or blend into a cucumber smoothie.
3. Coconut Water
– Why: Natural electrolytes and refreshing taste.
– How: Drink directly from fresh coconuts or buy bottled coconut water.
4. Mint Lemonade
– Why: Mint is cooling and lemonade is refreshing.
– How: Mix fresh lemon juice, mint leaves, water and a touch of honey or sugar.
5. Frozen Yogurt
– Why: Cool and creamy, provides probiotics.
– How: Blend yogurt with your favorite fruits and freeze.
6. Iced Green Tea
– Why: Antioxidants and a cooling effect.
– How: Brew green tea, let it cool, add ice and a slice of lemon.
7. Mango Smoothie
– Why: Mangoes are hydrating and rich in vitamins.
– How: Blend mango with yogurt or milk and ice.
8. Salad with Leafy Greens
– Why: High water content in greens like lettuce and spinach.
– How: Make a simple salad with leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers and a light dressing.
9. Gazpacho
– Why: Cold soup made from fresh, hydrating vegetables.
– How: Blend tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, garlic and olive oil, then chill.
10. Berry Popsicles
– Why: Hydrating and full of antioxidants.
– How: Blend berries with water or juice, pour into molds and freeze.
Hydration Tips Beyond Drinking Water
1. Eat Hydrating Foods
– Focus on fruits and vegetables with high water content such as watermelon, cucumber, strawberries, and celery.
2. Use Electrolyte Solutions
– Sports drinks or homemade electrolyte solutions (water with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon) help replenish lost salts.
3. Stay Cool
– Keep your environment cool to reduce the amount of sweating and hence the need for rehydration.
4. Avoid Diuretics
– Limit intake of caffeine and alcohol as they can increase water loss.
5. Consume Soups and Broths
– Light, clear soups and broths can be a great way to hydrate, especially when hot food feels too heavy.
6. Drink Herbal Teas
– Herbal teas such as peppermint or chamomile can be refreshing when served cold and can contribute to your daily fluid intake.
7. Smoothies and Shakes
– Blend fruits and vegetables with yogurt or milk for a hydrating and nutritious drink.
8. Moisturize Skin
– Use lotions and moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated, which can indirectly support overall hydration.
9. Monitor Urine Color
– Ensure your urine is light yellow, which is a good indicator of proper hydration.
10. Frequent Small Sips
– Drink small amounts of fluids frequently throughout the day rather than large amounts at once to maintain steady hydration levels.
These foods, drinks and tips should help you stay cool and hydrated during the summer months. Enjoy! You can do better!
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DISCLAIMER: This is my personal blog. The views and opinions expressed here represent of my own based on educational research. Also thoughts and opinions change from time to time as I come to learn more and develop my understanding about the things and issues that I am blogging about.
