Vegan News: Beat the Heat: The 7 Plant-Based Foods Experts Swear by During a Heatwave...

he following article is from Vegan News

Extreme heat is hitting Europe and parts of the US. While drinking enough water is vital, choosing the right foods can also help you stay hydrated and cool.

Extreme high temperatures, made more likely by the climate crisis, are hitting the globe like never before. Countries like Germany and Denmark experienced the hottest days on record this past week, and parts of the US are bracing for excruciating heat for the holiday week ahead. Staying indoors, avoiding strenuous exercise, and drinking plenty of water are all important things to do when the weather is unbearable, but eating the right foods is vital, too. Find some of our go-to heatwave foods (and recipe inspiration) below.

How do you hydrate in a heatwave?

Of course, drinking plenty of water is important for hydration all year round. But in a heatwave, it is essential, especially if you’re outside a lot. “People working in the heat or otherwise engaging in physical activity should drink an eight-ounce cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” Leana Wen, MD, MSc, told CNN. “This would total about 24 to 32 ounces per hour. People should also keep well hydrated before and after their outdoor time in the heat.” But when it comes to hydration, diet is important, too.



What are the best foods to eat during a heatwave?

Plenty of plant-based foods have a high water content, which can help you stay hydrated and refreshed in scorching temperatures. Cucumbers, watermelons, citrus fruit, and pineapple, for example, are great food choices when it’s hot.

“Pineapple might not make you ‘feel’ cool the way that mint can, but pineapple contains the super powerful anti-inflammatory property, bromelain, Bex Prade IFMCP, RNT, told Women’s Health. ”This helps your body combat the effects of heat and inflammation, and the water-rich fruit also helps you stay hydrated which can help regulate your body temperature.”

7 cooling foods to eat when it’s super hot outside

Here are what experts say are the best cooling, hydrating plant-based foods to eat during a heatwave.

1.Watermelon

Why is it good for a heatwave? Watermelon is one of the most hydrating fruits you can eat because it’s made up of about 90 percent water. It’s also a source of potassium, which helps to balance electrolytes (crucial for maintaining hydration).

2.Cucumbers

Why is it good for a heatwave? Cucumbers contain even more water than watermelon—they’re around 95 percent water. They’re also rich in nutrients, including potassium, and have a naturally cooling effect on the body.

3.Tomatoes

Why is it good for a heatwave? They have a high water content (they’re about 94 percent water) and are nutrient-dense. They’re also particularly rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help to protect against sun damage.

4.Citrus fruits

Why is it good for a heatwave? Citrus fruits—like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes—have a high water content, and they’re also rich in vitamin C as well as potassium and magnesium. These electrolytes help replenish what is lost through sweat, reducing the risk of heat-related issues.

5.Berries

Why is it good for a heatwave? Berries provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and manganese. These nutrients support various bodily functions and help maintain your health during a heatwave. They’re also a good source of natural sugar, which can help give you a quick energy boost, too.

6.Zucchini

Why is it good for a heatwave? Similar to cucumber, zucchini is 95 percent water. It’s also easy to digest due to its fiber content, and it’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium and magnesium.

7.Pineapple

Why is it good for a heatwave? As mentioned above, pineapple contains bromelain, which is beneficial during a heatwave. But on top of this, it’s also made up of 86 percent water, it’s packed with antioxidants and B vitamins, and it contains natural sugars, too.