Summer has already reached its peak across the country, with daily temperatures soaring above 40°C. Studies reveal that extreme heat can be harmful to your health, causing fatigue, heat cramps, and even heat stroke. While we rush to switch on fans and even work out in ACs, we often forget a natural and powerful way to stay cool—watching what we eat.
Yes, your diet can cool you down or worsen your condition. Some foods that cause body heat can disrupt your digestion and make you feel sluggish or hot. That's why you need to know the foods to eat and avoid in hot weather. From heavy grains to spicy goodies and dry fruits, they could be quietly draining your energy.
Even your veggie choices matter—there are specific vegetables to avoid in summer that could make things worse. So, before you plan your next summer meal, make sure to check this list of foods to avoid in summer. Read on and keep your body cool, happy, and hydrated all season long!
Table Of Contents
- What Foods Should You Avoid In Hot Weather? 19 Foods & Drinks To Avoid In Hot Weather
- What Is the Best Food To Eat In Hot Weather?
- Dietitian’s Recommendation
- The Final Say
- FAQs
- References
What Foods Should You Avoid In Hot Weather? 19 Foods & Drinks To Avoid In Hot Weather
Studies show that the foods you put in your mouth often have thermic effects that influence your body. When you eat, your body begins to produce heat. This is a process in which the body produces a particular level of heat to metabolise meals. As a result, the type of food you eat may either reduce or increase body heat.
The following are the foods that produce heat in the body:
1. Peanuts
Summer isn't the greatest season to eat lots of peanuts. Peanuts increase metabolism, generate heat in the body, and improve blood circulation. Excess heat can lead to lip cracks, headaches, and other issues. However, you can consume them occasionally throughout the summer.
2. Brown Rice
Brown rice and other whole grains are harder to digest because they have complex carbohydrates. They generate a lot of heat when digested, and thus, they are among the foods to avoid in hot weather.
3. Mangoes
Do you believe it? Scientists affirm that it is true. A study discovered that the 'king of fruits,' when taken in excess amounts, really raises body heat, and even a fridge can't take away the 'heaty' feature of the mango. It is a popular but surprising food that produces heat in the body.
4. Eggs
This superfood is abundant in protein, calcium, and iron, and should be consumed in moderation during the summer. Eggs kickstart your metabolism, which generates energy that keeps you warm. During the summer, it is recommended that you eat no more than two eggs per day. Consuming more might induce excessive heat in the body, which can lead to intestinal problems.
5. Almonds
Almonds, like other nuts, warm the body because their digestion process is slow, generating heat. Almonds, if consumed in excess, might be detrimental during the summer since they increase body temperature. However, soaking them overnight and eating them the next morning can counteract their heating properties.
6. Honey
Honey is commonly associated with the winter season and is thought to be beneficial during that time. It is naturally warm and has been shown to increase your body's temperature, eventually making you feel overheated. It is definitely one of the foods to avoid in summer.
7. Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are naturally heating and are incredibly beneficial for keeping the body warm. This is why you see so many meals with sesame seeds in the winter. During summer, they become a food to avoid in hot weather.
8. Black Pepper
This spice is also responsible for generating heat in the body. It contains a chemical that, when digested, raises your body's temperature. It is best to reduce its usage during peak heat days.
Also Read: 16 Sun-Sational Summer Drinks For Weight Loss — Lose Up To 10 Kgs This Season!
Vegetables To Avoid In Summer
Certain vegetables can also raise your body temperature and should be eaten sparingly in hot weather. Here are the key vegetables to avoid in summer:
9. Root Vegetables
Root vegetables are strong and nourishing, but they can be heavy and cause heat when ingested in large quantities. A study published in the Journal of Food Science discovered that root vegetables, such as potatoes, have higher heat capacity and thermal conductivity than lighter vegetables, such as summer squash and cucumbers. This means they may produce more heat in the body when consumed. Examples include:
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Beets
Opt for lighter alternatives like summer squash, cucumbers, or leafy greens.
10. Onions & Garlic
While onions and garlic contribute flavour to foods, they can also cause heat in the body, which may not be desirable during the summer. Use them in moderation, or substitute milder options such as chives or leeks.
11. Spinach & Kale
These leafy greens are high in nutrients, but they also contain oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption and contribute to kidney stone formation, according to a study led by the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Enjoy them in moderation and in combination with other greens such as lettuce or arugula.
12. Peppers
While bell peppers are a common ingredient in many meals, they can be difficult to stomach for some people, particularly in hot weather. For salads and snacks, consider using lighter ingredients such as sweet peppers or cucumber.
Spicy peppers such as jalapeños, serranos, and habaneros can raise body temperatures and may not be the greatest option during summer heat waves. Research published in the Journal of Surgical Research found that spicy peppers enhance stomach acid production. If you enjoy heat in your food, choose milder kinds or use them sparingly.
13. Cabbage & Brussels Sprouts
As per researchers at the Technological University of Dublin, cruciferous vegetables are healthy but may cause bloating and intestinal pain in some people. If you like them, have them in small pieces and ensure they are properly cooked to ease digestion.
14. Mushrooms
While mushrooms are a useful component, they can produce some heat in the body. Consume them in moderation and explore lighter substitutes such as zucchini or summer squash for stir-fries and sautés.
Also Read: Summer Survival: 20 Foods & Drinks To Reduce Body Heat & Keep You Hydrated
Other Foods & Drinks To Avoid In Summer
The summer heat already puts a strain on your body, so it’s important to be mindful of what not to eat in summer to prevent overheating. Here's a list of additional foods to avoid in hot weather:
15. Alcohol
While you may crave a cold beer on a hot summer day, it is best to avoid alcohol during the summer because it might cause excessive heat in your body. In fact, alcohol can elevate your body temperature enough to cause heatstroke. It is one of the most harmful foods to avoid in hot weather.
16. Oily & Fried Foods
Oily and fried foods, whether French fries at a neighbouring café, pakodas fried at home, or a package of potato wafers, should be avoided during the summer since they interfere with digestion and clog your skin's pores with extra oil. Instead, choose healthier snacking options like fruits and vegetables or baked snacks.
17. Spices
We love our spices for keeping us healthy. However, spices that we typically use in abundance in our cooking can be damaging to your body during the summer since they raise your metabolism and create a thermogenic impact, resulting in excessive heat generation and an increase in your body temperature. They are common foods to avoid in hot weather.
18. Dry Fruits & Nuts
Although dry fruits and nuts like almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews are very nutritious, they should only be had in the summer in moderation. Having more of these food items may increase the body temperature, so they are more suitable for the winter season.
19. Tea & Coffee
Both tea and coffee contain substantial levels of caffeine. While caffeine is beneficial in moderation, it can create extra heat in your body if used at higher than advised levels during the summer. So, instead of drinking these hot beverages, opt for a big glass of lemonade or lassi. These drinks cool your system without compromising hydration.
What Is the Best Food To Eat In Hot Weather?
Prioritise water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens for optimal body cooling and hydration in hot weather. Consider yoghurt, which contains probiotics and important nutrients, and coconut water, which is a natural supply of electrolytes.
Some of these foods to reduce body heat include the following:
- Watermelon: A summer staple, watermelon contains approximately 92% water and delivers vital vitamins and antioxidants.
- Cucumber: Cucumber is 95% water, a cool and refreshing snack.
- Leafy Greens: Like spinach and kale, leafy greens are high in water content and nutrients, and are perfect for summer meals.
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like grapefruits and oranges are rich in Vitamin C and have good hydrating qualities.
- Coconut Water: A natural electrolyte drink that helps replenish lost fluids and minerals.
- Mint: This multipurpose herb has inherent cooling properties.
- Fruits & vegetables: Incorporate a range of hydrating fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, strawberries, and cucumbers.
- Buttermilk: A classic summer beverage produced by churning curds.
Also Read: 10 Foods for Old People NEED for Eternal Energy (Plus Meal Ideas Inside!)
Dietitian’s Recommendation
Every food has a warm or cool effect on the body, and each affects you differently. In our daily lives, we frequently ingest items that cause heat in our bodies without even realising it. Excessive eating of these foods may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. I recommend eating hydrating foods like cucumbers, melons, and leafy greens, drinking plenty of water, and listening to your body's instincts for what feels best throughout the summer months, which promotes both physical and mental health. Keep yourself well hydrated to avoid dehydration. I also propose that you do not consume them in large quantities. Moderation is the key.
Dt. Lavina Chauhan
The Final Say
When it comes to battling the summer heat, your plate matters just as much as your sunscreen. Avoiding the wrong foods can make a huge difference in how your body feels. Say goodbye to those foods to avoid in hot weather and pick lighter, cooling options instead. By steering clear of foods that produce heat in the body, especially the wrong vegetables to avoid in summer, you’re giving yourself the best chance to beat the heat naturally. Stay cool, stay smart—and let your diet do the chilling!
FAQs
1. What foods cool your body?
Foods heavy in water, such as watermelon and cucumber, are great for cooling the body down. Yoghurt, mint, and coconut water are also known for their cooling effects.
2. What foods cause overheating?
Dishes heavy in saturated fats, such as fried dishes, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy products, might raise metabolic heat levels and contribute to sensations of sluggishness.
References
- https://circledna.com/blog/5-foods-that-increase-body-heat-inducing-body-heat-with-food/?srsltid=AfmBOoqxU94-plGM79B0N4atAVr05zw1HkHW5nsmqs0q9UTh7VX7Jl1e
- https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/foods-that-produce-heat-in-the-body-1839300
- https://www.healthians.com/blog/these-12-foods-could-be-making-you-feel-hotter-this-summer/
- https://blog.gytree.com/foods-that-increase-body-heat/
- https://www.onlymyhealth.com/vegetables-to-avoid-in-summer-1714095654
- https://apollodiagnostics.in/blogs/avoid-these-5-foods-during-summer-31
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