With the rise in temperature, focusing on light, refreshing meals that help keep you hydrated and provide essential nutrients while being low in calories is important. An ideal summer diet is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants while low calories like watermelon, cucumber, berries, melons, tomatoes, leafy greens, zucchini, bell peppers, corn and citrus fruits.
Adding lean protein sources that are lighter and easier to digest and can include tofu, lentils, chickpeas, and Greek yogurt is also important. Salads and wraps are ideal for summer, so load them up with colourful vegetables, lean protein and a light dressing or vinaigrette or experiment with different ingredients to keep them interesting and satisfying.
Health experts suggest keeping oneself adequately hydrated and covered while going out in the sun and recommend fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, mango, and grapes. Also, drink aam panna and lemonade. Including yogurt in your diet provides a perfect blend of probiotics for gut health, protein, calcium, and vitamins.
Cucumbers are crisp and hydrating as they are composed of 95 per cent water. They will keep you refreshed and provide essential vitamins and minerals. Also, add summer’s natural candy - berries burst with antioxidants and fibre. They help fight inflammation and support digestion. Summer demands the vibrancy of citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons.
A refreshing way to incorporate nutrients is to consume smoothies with a base of water, coconut water or almond milk and add a variety of fruits, vegetables and a source of protein like Greek yogurt or protein powder.
