Eat These 5 Refreshing Foods To Keep Your Gut Healthy and Cool This Summer

Be gentle on your gut this summer season, and opt for healthy and light meals that include these five refreshing ingredients. Read on to know.

Amid soaring temperatures and rising heat, it is important to focus on health and well-being, especially that of the gut. Our digestive system often takes a hit during weather change, and in summer, excessive sweating and loss of fluids and electrolytes from the body can cause gut-related problems. In fact, feeling weak, experiencing acidity and bloating, among other things are all signs that our gut needs a summer reset. According to Nidhi Nahata, a lifestyle coach and founder of Justbe by Nidhi Nahata, a plant-based vegetarian restaurant, it is important to eat regular home-cooked meals that can provide balance and hydration to combat the heat, while keeping the body cool at all times.

The expert shares five foods that can help with digestion, lower internal heat, and make the stomach feel light and revitalised in the warmer seasons; read on.

Refreshing, Gut-Healthy Foods To Eat This Summer

Coconut Water: Nature's Electrolyte

The expert says that coconut water is naturally cool and rich in potassium. It can replenish fluids and soothe an upset stomach. By gently balancing the body's fluids, coconut water becomes an ideal drink to combat sticky, sweaty summer days when the gut feels overwhelmed. People on a low-potassium diet or with kidney issues should check with their doctor before consuming it.

Cucumber: Cool, Clean, And Crunchy

A summer favourite, cucumber is almost entirely water. Its consumption can help with the body's detoxification process; it also hydrates from inside. Cucumber's anti-inflammatory features lower discomfort and heat-related puffiness, the expert states. You can combine cucumber, mint, and rock salt for a refreshing mid-day meal.

Basil Seeds (Sabja): Soothing For Gut

Basil seeds are a great source of fibre; they are considered to be a natural coolant. When combined with lemon and mint, they help with acidity relief. It makes for a pre-meal beverage that calms the body and helps with bowel regulation. It is best savoured when blended with cool beverages.

Watermelon: Ultimate Natural Cleanser

Sweet, hydrating, and rich in gut-friendly fibre, watermelon is the ultimate summer detox food. With its high water content, it gently relaxes the digestive tract and aids in the flushing of toxins. Diabetics should consume it sparingly.

Mint: Tonic For Digestion

This fragrant herb has been used in summer dishes. Mint reduces flatulence and stimulates gut enzymes. It can be made into a chutney or used as water infusion. Those with acid reflux should consume it in moderation, as it may relax the esophageal valve and trigger symptoms.

Rethink Summer Health

The expert concludes by saying that in the hot summer months, it is important to stay away from processed foods, and be mindful of the season's rhythm. Light meals prepared with local ingredients can be immensely beneficial for the gut.