Summer Treats – 4 Foods to Keep You Cool

Looking to beat the heat with a refreshing snack? Swap out a cold beer or frozen dessert with these delicious, cooling, and healthy summer treats!

Cucumber

There’s a reason why the saying is “be as cool as a cucumber”! And that’s because cucumbers have a high percentage of water in them, making them a very hydrating snack. Try pairing slices of cucumber with hummus or making a delicious cucumber juice with lemon! You get all the great hydration benefits with the delicious taste of cucumber!

Watermelon

Watermelon is a very popular summer treat. It is also very hydrating, but the best part about biting into a watermelon in the middle of a hot summer day is that burst of sweet flavour! You can eat a watermelon sliced up on its own or try making it into a refreshing summer salad with mint leaves, cucumber, and feta cheese!

Pineapple

This is another very popular summer treat and can often be seen next to watermelon on any snack table. Pineapples are special because it is a source of bromelain, an enzyme that reduces inflammation in the body. So, while you get your refreshment, you also get the additional health bonus! Try blending up some pineapple in a delicious green smoothie any time of the day!

Lemon

Even if you aren’t a fan of sour things, you can’t deny the cooling effect that lemons have on the body. The best way to incorporate lemon into your diet is to add it to the dressings of your leafy green salads or to add a couple of slices to your drinking water throughout the day! Drinking lemon water will promote detoxification in the body, clear skin, and boost your immune system all while keeping you refreshed and hydrated!

Staying healthy in the summer months can be a challenge, especially when it comes to food. Sometimes, all it takes is a different approach to your lifestyle. If you’re interested in taking a naturopathic approach to your diet and lifestyle, call Dr. Cecilia Ho, naturopath in Pickering today at 905.491.8688.