Heatwave In India: The Indian subcontinent is consistently grappling with the challenge of heatwaves in various parts of the country. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Delhi and Uttar Pradesh with the ongoing hot weather. The heatwave has caused increased hospitalisations due to heat-related illnesses as well as many people have died due to the scorching temperatures. 

Keeping in mind certain important things can help you prevent a heat stroke or other heat-related illnesses. The foods you eat play a direct role in maintaining the body temperature and keeping you cool amid intense heat. Here are some foods that you should eat and avoid during a heatwave to protect your health. 

Heatwave In India: Foods To Eat

Curd Rice

The remarkable abundance of protein, vitamins, minerals, fibre, and calcium found in curd rice is beneficial for general health. Additionally, they have a good amount of probiotics, which support proper digestion, gut health, and cooling.

Cucumber

Cucumber is extremely nutrient-dense and high in water content. Cucumbers can help lower blood sugar, prevent constipation, and aid in weight loss. Applying cucumber to your skin can also relieve redness, irritation, and sunburn caused by extreme heat.

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Mint

Foods To Eat In Summer (Image Credits: Canva)

During the summer, taking mint regularly helps prevent indigestion, boost body energy, and treat irritable bowel syndrome. Mint is particularly high in vitamin A, which promotes healthy eyes and night vision. The cooling properties of mint help the body calm down.

Citrus Foods

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, grapefruits, limes, and many others, are rich in vitamin C. In addition to strengthening immunity, vitamin C keeps skin elastic and flexible. Moreover, they are an excellent source of water and fibre, both of which help to reduce body warmth.

Watermelon

It is about 90% water and an excellent source of essential nutrients that maintain a healthy body. It is abundant in magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A and C. The high water content of watermelon helps prevent dehydration and keeps the body cool.

Heatwave In India: Foods To Avoid

Soda

Despite the well-known cooling effects of soda, summertime is the worst season to consume it. Carbonated drinks, like soda, have a high sugar content, are highly addicting, and cause dehydration. Overindulgence in sugar-filled beverages can also lead to tooth issues and weight gain. 

Processed Foods

Avoid processed foods that are chopped, cleaned, heated, pasteurised, canned, frozen, dehydrated, blended, or packaged in the summer. These meals make you retain water, which makes you dehydrated. 

Spicy Foods

Foods To Avoid In Summer (Image Credits: Canva)

Spicy foods should be avoided in the summer since they can upset the pitta dosha, increasing body warmth and causing excessive perspiration. In hot weather, their heating properties could increase your risk of sunstroke.

Fried Foods

Fried foods should be avoided in hot weather due to their high salt content and difficult digestion, which can lead to exhaustion and bad digestion. They could also make your skin excessively greasy, which can result in acne and outbreaks.

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(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)