Saed News: Hot weather increases the body’s metabolism and causes sweating and loss of water. Consuming natural cooling foods such as juicy fruits, fresh vegetables, and traditional drinks can regulate the body’s internal temperature and bring freshness without the need for electrical devices.
According to Saed News, with the beginning of summer and rising temperatures, many of us look for ways to escape the heat. While air conditioners and icy foods are temporary solutions, some natural foods can cool the body from within. These foods, with their hydrating, antioxidant properties and ability to balance electrolytes, strengthen the body’s thermoregulation system. In this article, we look at the best cooling options for hot days.
Watermelon, with more than 90% water, is one of the strongest natural cooling foods. In addition to deep hydration, it contains electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium, which are lost through sweating. Eating chilled (not frozen) watermelon helps reduce core body temperature.
Cucumber and lettuce have very high water content and contain sulfur and silicon compounds that have cooling and anti-inflammatory effects. Adding them to salads or consuming cucumber drink (with rosewater and a little sugar) is a traditional and effective way in Iranian medicine to reduce body heat.
Yogurt, especially plain and low-fat types, balances stomach temperature. Traditional doogh with mint and a bit of salt replenishes lost fluids and minerals and is an excellent drink to prevent heatstroke. Yogurt can also be used in cold dishes like yogurt-and-cucumber or borani.
Fresh mint contains menthol, which stimulates cold receptors in the skin and mouth, creating a cooling sensation. Rosewater also has a cooling nature and, when used in drinks (such as basil seed drink or sekanjabin) or sprayed on the face, significantly helps reduce body heat.
Coconut water is rich in potassium, sodium, and natural sugars and acts as an isotonic drink, quickly restoring water and electrolytes. Basil seeds (tokhm sharbati) absorb water and form a gel-like texture, reducing internal heat and being excellent for quenching thirst.
In traditional medicine, okra and zucchini are considered to have a cold and moist nature. Cooking okra as a light stew or adding zucchini to soups keeps the body hydrated and cool without generating excess heat.
To maintain body temperature balance during summer heat, use these natural foods instead of industrial drinks and artificial ice. However, excessive consumption of cold foods may also harm the digestive system, so balance is important.
