eTip July 2020

It’s Summer! Eat Foods that Hydrate to Keep You Cool!

During these dog days of summer, it is particularly important to stay cool and hydrated. While the best way to stay hydrated is to drink water, there are some foods whose water content can help you beat the heat. Add these to your summer eating plan to stay healthy and hydrated.

Cucumbers: Cucumbers are 95% water and, at only 16 calories a cup with lots of dietary fiber and vitamin C, cukes are a healthy addition to any summer diet.

Watermelon: Any better memories than biting into a cold slice of watermelon on a summer day? Not only does watermelon have a high water content and lots of vitamins A, B6 and C, watermelon may stimulate the release of excess perspiration (according to the USDA), making those hot, humid days easier to handle.

Pomegranate: Those ruby gems inside the fruit are full of juice, have a high water content, and pack an antioxidant punch.

Mint: The menthol in mint has a cooling effect on a protein receptor in your brain called TRPM8. Do you need another reason to enjoy mint ice cream or mint iced tea this summer?

Kiwi: Another water-packed fruit, kiwi also is high in potassium which helps balance electrolytes and keeps your kidneys happy.

Celery: A water-dense veggie (96% water!), celery also brings fiber, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, iron, and zinc. A stalk of celery helps keep electrolytes up, and acid reflux at bay.

Snow Peas: Another refreshing veg, with a high water content and a healthy dose of vitamin C.

Pears: Hydrating, delicious, and 6 grams of fiber make a pear a healthy snack.

Gazpacho: Tomatoes – gazpacho’s main ingredient- are 94% water! Crunchy vegetables and lots of vitamins and nutrients make Gazpacho a hydrating and healthy treat for lunch or snack.

Excerpted from Healthy Foods Magazine, 10 Foods that Help Prevent Heat Stroke.

To read more about healthy eating and peripheral neuropathy, check out this webpage.