Eating Habits in Warmer Climates: Eating The Right Foods Is More Beneficial than You Think. 

As temperatures rise, people’s appetites change, and their digestive systems become weaker. Careless eating can easily lead to gastrointestinal problems. Experts advise that during this season, it is essential to pay attention to your diet: eat what you should in moderation, and avoid what you shouldn’t eat. The Chinese saying “Illness enters through the mouth” is especially true in summer. It is worth being mindful of your diet during the warmer months.

There are several dietary considerations to keep in mind. Below are some suggestions you may find helpful:

1. Eat fruits in moderation 

While fruits are an important part of your diet especially in warm climates, you should choose fruits according to your body’s needs, as eating too much can lead to digestive issues. For example, fruits like pears, apples, melons, watermelons, bananas, kiwis, mangos, persimmons, water chestnuts, and grapefruits are considered cooling, and may benefit those with a warm constitution. On the other hand, lychees, longans, and apricots are warm fruits and are more suitable for those with a cold constitution. 

2. Limit cold foods

It is tempting to cool down with cold food and particularly cold beverages in hot climates. It is worth noting that consuming too much can harm your stomach. Excessive cold foods/drinks can lead to irregular bowel movements and gastrointestinal problems. 

3. Eat more bitter foods 

Bitter foods, while not as palatable, are beneficial for health during the hot summer months. They can help cool down the body, promote blood circulation, and dilate blood vessels. Bitter foods include bitter melon, some vegetables, and beverages like tea, coffee, and cocoa (without additional sugar).

4. Stay hydrated 

Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water, as it means your body is already dehydrated. Aim to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily. Foods like lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and fruits such as peaches, apricots, and melons contain high water content can also help keep you hydrated.

5. Replenish salt and potassium 

Sweating is common in hot weather and can cause the loss of salts and minerals like potassium. It’s important to eat salty foods to replenish lost salts and balance your body. Foods rich in potassium include fresh vegetables and fruits such as strawberries, apricots, litchis, peaches, and plums. Tea is also a good source of potassium.

6. Supplement and Vitamins 

In the hot summer months, metabolism increases and can lead to a deficiency of various vitamins. Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, beans, organ meats, and shrimp shells, can help maintain proper nutrient levels.

7. Choose light, nutritious foods 

Summer diets should focus on light, nutritious foods that help balance the body’s internal temperature. Foods like duck, fish, shrimp, lean meat, mushrooms, and barley are good options.

8. Ensure fresh food 

High temperatures in summer can cause food to go bad quickly, leading to harmful bacteria that can cause digestive issues. It’s important to consume fresh food and avoid anything that has been sitting out for too long.

9. Be cautious with leftover food 

Avoid eating food that has been left out for long periods, as it can become contaminated. Store leftovers properly in the refrigerator and consume them within a day or two.

10. Eat Regular Meals 

Despite changes in appetite when it is hot, maintain regular mealtimes. Irregular eating can lead to hormonal imbalances and other health issues.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a healthy diet and avoid potential health issues during the summer months.

Photo Credit:

Photo by Nutriciously on Unsplash

Photo by KOBU Agency on Unsplash