9 Foods to Help You Survive the Summer Heat

It’s hot outside, and you want to eat ice cream and stay inside as much as possible. Sound familiar? Luckily, there are plenty of healthy foods out there that can keep you cool on even the hottest days, while providing your body with the vitamins and nutrients it needs to stay healthy and avoid getting sick from the heat or from too much time indoors in front of the air conditioning. Here are nine foods to help you survive the summer heat.

1) Cucumbers

Cucumbers are hydrating, and they’re also low in calories and packed with fiber. Try dunking slices into a cold-pressed juice or blend them up into a refreshing margarita. Make sure to keep your kitchen stocked with several varieties of cucumber, including English (smaller and less bitter), Japanese (long and slender), burpless (great for snacking on), hothouse (large, round, and mild)and Kirby (pickling).

2) Bananas

This tropical fruit provides long-lasting energy, which is why it’s a popular pre-workout snack. Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamin B6, two nutrients that play a role in energy production. They’re also high in fibre, which can help prevent overeating by making you feel fuller for longer. And bananas come with all sorts of added bonuses: they contain antioxidants, strengthen bones and may even lower your risk of cancer and heart disease.

3) Potatoes

Potatoes are one of those foods that you either love or hate, but they also provide some serious nutritional benefits. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and contain twice as much potassium as bananas, making them a perfect natural source of electrolytes—which is especially helpful when you’re sweating your way through a tough workout. Plus, new research has shown that potatoes may even help keep you slim by preventing overeating later in the day.

4) Lean Meats

We’re all familiar with eating lean meats like chicken and fish, but did you know that they can help boost your metabolism? Many athletes recommend eating lean protein sources shortly before exercising because it increases metabolic rate, according to a review in European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. In fact, 6 ounces of cooked chicken breast has 170 calories and 32 grams of protein. Not only that, but lean meat is a good source of iron.

5) Whole Grains

Complex carbohydrates from whole grains are a great way to fuel your body while still losing weight. Whole grains take longer for your body to digest, so you’ll feel fuller longer and won’t be as likely to snack on empty calories. And studies show that people who eat three or more daily servings of whole grains tend to weigh less than those who don’t.

6) Watermelon

Watermelon is loaded with water and is one of those thirst-quenching foods that’s actually good for you. It’s also full of a compound called citrulline, which relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation—which means better blood flow throughout your body.

7) Salmon

Salmon is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s also a great source of healthy fats, which your body needs for hormone production and energy creation. Most types of fish contain omega-3s—walnuts are an excellent source—but salmon’s level of purity makes it a particularly strong choice.

8) Frozen Yogurt

Frozen yogurt is a great treat for summer. It’s high in protein and can help curb sugar cravings since it has less sugar than ice cream. Frozen yogurt also comes in a variety of flavors, so you’re never stuck with just one option. For tips on eating right during hot weather and getting an hourglass figure, check out these healthy frozen yogurt options.

9) Eggs

Eggs are excellent for getting in shape and can fit into just about any healthy eating routine. A single egg contains 6 grams of high-quality protein, 12 percent of your daily value of Vitamin D, a full day’s supply of Riboflavin (B2), Phosphorus (P), Selenium, and half a day’s worth of Vitamin B12. Eggs also contain choline, which is one step below Acetylcholine and an important neurotransmitter.