Summer Vegetables As Cooling Foods

Summer heat increases body temperature and can cause hat boils and digestive problems. But, Neelanjana Singh, Senior Consultant Dietetics from PSRI Hospital in New Delhi lists out vegetables that should be consumed during this season and those which should be avoided.
Vegetables are considered cooling foods compared to meat and poultry. Hence we are advised to consume more vegetables in summer and reduce the intake of non-vegetarian foods. Consuming vegetables in summer also maintains hydration in the body. Besides vegetables are considered healthy as they can reduce high blood pressure and diabetes, induce weight loss, enhance one's complexion and improve heart health.
Cucumber and pumpkin are the best known vegetables to cool the body. Senior Consultant Dietetics, Neelanjana Singh further elaborates on summer vegetables, ¡°Nature has intended fruits and vegetables according to human requirements, which is why the usual summer vegetables like Lauki or Gheeya (bottle gourd), Torai (ridge gourd), Teenda (Indian Apple Gourd), Parval (pointed gourd) are all great for summer use. They are easy to digest and also have cooling properties.¡±
But not all vegetables are apt for the summer heat. There are certain vegetables that are dense and produce more heat for digestion. Neelanjana Singh suggests avoiding these vegetables, ¡°I would not say that vegetables produce heat in the body but there are some vegetables which have a lower water content and may be calorie dense as well. Vegetables such as peas and cauliflower are ideal for winter months although you can consume them in moderation during the summer months as well.¡±
During summer months, increase your water intake, yogurt and fruits and choose vegetables, which are high in water, to maintain body temperature.
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