Ease Summer Heat: 10 Traditional Indian Foods for Naturally Reducing Body Temperature
In the sweltering heat of summer, maintaining a balanced body temperature is crucial. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a natural and effective solution to combat the excess heat – a summer diet rich in cooling foods and spices.
### Cooling Foods
Watermelon, melons, pears, apples, ripe mango, grapes, figs, raisins, berries, coconut, pomegranate, and honeydew are some of the refreshing fruits that are more hydrating and cooling. Among the vegetables, cucumber, zucchini, asparagus, celery, squash, kale, lettuce, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, beets, and cabbage are recommended.
Grains like white rice, oats, barley, quinoa, amaranth, farro, whole wheat, mung beans, azuki beans, black-eyed peas, red and brown lentils, and chickpeas (in moderation) are also beneficial. Dairy products such as cow's milk (warm or spiced), ghee, soft cheeses, and fresh homemade yogurt (sparingly) can be included in the diet.
### Cooling Spices
Fennel seeds (Saunf), coriander, cardamom, mint, cumin seeds (Jeera), and turmeric are some of the cooling spices suggested. Fennel seeds help balance excess heat and improve digestion, while coriander soothes the digestive fire and balances excess Pitta. Cardamom has calming properties that help reduce body temperature, and mint is known for its cooling and refreshing effects. Cumin seeds exert a cooling effect when soaked in water or boiled into tea, aiding digestion and hydration.
Turmeric, while generally warming, can offer a mild cooling effect in small amounts, helping to regulate inflammation.
### Tips for Consumption
Eating the largest meal at midday, when digestion is strongest, is recommended. Skipping meals or eating late at night should be avoided as they can aggravate Pitta. Use cooling foods and spices in moderation, as excessive use can imbalance the doshas.
In addition to food, sandalwood, when used externally, cools and calms the skin. Avocados are cooling and grounding, while coriander is good for digestion and reducing heat.
Incorporating these cooling foods and spices into your summer diet can help balance the body's heat, particularly the Pitta dosha, and provide relief from the summer heat.
- To stay cool and hydrated during summer, consider incorporating watermelon, pears, apples, and other cooling fruits into your diet.
- For a balanced summer diet, include vegetables like cucumber, kale, spinach, and broccoli, along with grains such as white rice and oats.
- To enhance the cooling effect, use spices like fennel seeds, coriander, cardamom, and mint in your meals, and consume foods in moderation to avoid imbalancing the doshas.
- Incorporating cooling foods and spices, along with lifestyle practices like eating the largest meal at midday and avoiding late night meals, can help manage the excess heat during summer.
