We Brits love to complain, especially about the weather. For months, we’ve been whining that spring is dragging its heels, and soon we’ll be banging on about the heat, sweat and high humidity levels that summer brings. When this weather does arrive, it can take its toll on your wellness, leaving you feeling exhausted and de-energised. However, doing up your diet and stocking up on a few fresh and nutritious power foods can help you to look after your wellbeing this summer.
Firstly, take care of your skin this summer with avocadoes. These fruits are a rich source of vitamin E, which helps you to maintain youthful, glowing skin, and shiny hair. The high content of potassium in avocadoes also helps in fluid retention, and keeps your blood pressure stable. Another seasonal summer fruit that contains potassium is the mango, which will therefore help you control your heart rate and blood pressure. Evidence suggests that mangoes also help you to fight dehydration, and protects yourself against colon, breast, leukaemia and prostate cancers.
Watermelons and muskmelons have an alkalising effect on your body, and are packed with nutrition. In a melon, you will find plenty of selenium, vitamins A, B, C and E, essential fats and zinc, and these nutrients provide your body with essential fluids. Not only do melons help to keep you hydrated during the summer, but they also improve your cholesterol levels, reduce your risk of developing heart disease and are known to be one of the best anti-ageing foods around.
Let’s move away from fruits, shall we? A slice or two of cucumber after a long, sweaty, summery day is a really good way to revitalize your weary senses. The high water content of cucumber helps you to stay hydrated while also aiding your body in the elimination of damaging toxins. Cucumber can also be used to treat skin irritations and sunburns, or placed on your eyes to help reduce puffiness and treat dark circles. According to some studies, cucumber also helps in curing diabetes, reduces cholesterol levels and control blood pressure. Not bad for your run-of-the-mill summer salad!