FoodHow to beat the heat: Diet tips for surviving heatwaves

How to beat the heat: Diet tips for surviving heatwaves

Make it for lunch during a heatwave. You will prevent dizziness and other ailments.
Make it for lunch during a heatwave. You will prevent dizziness and other ailments.
Images source: © Adobe Stock

2:31 PM EDT, May 29, 2024

Heatwaves are affecting everyone. High air temperatures can cause not only discomfort but also severe ailments such as dizziness, muscle pain, and even fainting. One of the critical factors that influences our well-being on hot days is maintaining a proper diet.

High temperatures can effectively suppress your appetite and make eating a challenge. However, a proper diet during heat waves is crucial for our health and well-being. A well-balanced lunch in the heat can prevent dizziness, muscle cramps, and other ailments often accompanying hot days. Learn how to compose meals to survive even the hottest days.

why is eating important during heatwaves?

Many people mistakenly assume that drinking more water during heatwaves is enough to survive. Unfortunately, this strategy is insufficient. Our bodies need not only water but also nutrients to function properly.

Without the right dose of energy, building blocks, vitamins, and minerals, we lack the strength for daily activities and even essential life functions. These deficiencies can lead to the weakening of the body, deterioration of concentration, and increased susceptibility to diseases.

How to eat during heatwaves?

Inspiration for composing a summer diet can come from countries dealing with high temperatures for years. An excellent example is the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, whole grain products, and olive oil.

It is important to eat regularly but avoid overeating. Instead of heavy meals, choose light and easy-to-digest dishes. Great options include salads, cold soups, fruit soups, and vegetable creams.

Don't give up on protein, essential for building and regenerating tissues. Good protein sources are fish, lean poultry, eggs, and legumes. It's also vital to ensure adequate vitamins and minerals that support the body's functions on hot days. Essential are B vitamins, potassium, and magnesium in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.

How to cope with heatwaves?
How to cope with heatwaves?© Adobe Stock | NATHANAEL KIEFER

Sample menu for heatwaves

Breakfast:

  • Oatmeal with milk, fruits, and nuts
  • Scrambled eggs with tomatoes and spinach
  • Whole grain bread sandwiches with hummus and vegetables

Lunch:

  • Cold beet soup
  • Salad with grilled chicken and vegetables
  • Pasta with pesto and tomatoes

Dinner:

  • Steamed fish with potatoes and salad
  • Cottage cheese with radishes and chives
  • Whole grain bread sandwiches with avocado and egg

Remember that diet is only one element that affects our well-being during heat waves. Maintaining an appropriate room temperature, wearing breathable clothing, and taking regular breaks are also important.

By following these simple rules, we can survive even the hottest summer days without harming our health and enjoy the beautiful weather.

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