SUMMER HEAT – KEEPING YOUR COOL
Summer is approaching which means, the temperature will soon be rising. With the hotter temperatures, it is very important to stay well hydrated and cool. Staying hydrated does not mean that you have to drink cup after cup of water. There are a variety of ways to stay hydrated and enjoy the great benefits of summer. Below are some great ways to beat the summer heat.
INFUSE YOUR WATER
A great way to change up your boring water is infusing with fruit, vegetables and herbs! Infusing your water changes the taste without adding any additional calories (unless you eat the food). Mix some berries into your water or add cucumber with mint leaves for a refreshing taste.
ADD CREATIVE ICE CUBES
Ice cubes can definitely help cool off on a hot day, so why not change the way you make ice cubes?! Some great examples of ways to change your ices cubes are freezing coffee in an ice cube tray and add to almond milk or low fat milk option. You can also add fruit or herbs to ice cubes and the flavors are slowly released into your drink as the cubes melt. You can add your cubes to plain water or a sparkling spritzer, juice, or for those who like to enjoy cocktails, this is a great option to make drink a little more enjoyable.
ENJOY MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
A great thing about summer is the abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables. Both fruits and vegetables contain water and can help you stay hydrated. Another plus to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet is their nutrient content. Fruits and vegetables have many vitamins and minerals that our bodies need to maintain a healthy body.
AVOID SUGARY DRINKS
Because the sugary drinks taste good, people often times over-consume which can lead to unwanted calories and unwanted weight gain. Sometimes these drinks can also make you thirstier after consumption too, which attributes to the overconsumption and weight gain.
ENJOY A FRUIT BAR
Make homemade popsicles by freezing fruit puree with water and chunks of fruit. This is a great way to have picky eaters eat fruit and keep cool during the summer months. You can buy popsicle forms for a reasonable cost and purchase popsicle sticks. Puree your favorite fruits, add little water and add chunks for fruit for a nice bite. Freeze and enjoy within a couple of hours.
If looking for some great food options that contain an abundance of water, check out the list below for your top water-containing food items:
- watermelon (92% water content)
- celery (95% water)
- cucumbers (96% water)
- strawberries (92% water)
- lettuce (96% water).
Staying cool this summer does not mean you have to drink gallons of water. Don’t let you and your family fall victim to dehydration. Enjoy the above tips to help you and your family have a cool summer.
Dishin’ Out Healthy – Nichelle Hoege
