5 Foods to Help You Thrive This Summer (And What to Avoid)

When the temperatures rise, we start craving foods that will cool us off, but unfortunately, that doesn’t mean you can only eat ice cream and drink cool sodas. If you want to avoid feeling sluggish, sweaty, and grumpy, you need to feed your body properly.

And here are a few tips that will help you not only survive summer but thrive in these scorching temps.

1. Watermelon

This summer classic is a hydration hero. This fruit is nearly edible water because it contains 92% water, making it ideal for staying hydrated when the temperature rises. Watermelon is a powerful source of antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, which prevent your skin from becoming sunburned and becoming purple. Its benefits go beyond simply satisfying thirst.

Not to mention, it contains a wealth of vitamins A and B6, which help to maintain healthy eyes and boost the intellect. In addition, it has few calories, so you can eat it guilt-free. So go ahead and enjoy a large slice or blend it for a refreshing drink at your next summer gathering—it’s the ideal dessert to cool off in the heat!

2. Greek Yogurt

The summertime superpower you were unaware you needed is Greek yogurt. It’s like having a personal trainer for your muscles and a spa day for your gut because it’s loaded with protein and probiotics. This delicious treat helps you recover and get ready for more after a tough day of jumping off cliffs or swimming laps. It also fills you up without gaining weight, so it’s great at controlling those snack attacks.

For a delightful and nutritious snack, mix it up with a drizzle of honey and add some fresh peaches or strawberries. This combination will keep you feeling amazing and motivated throughout the summer!

3. Low Carb Bread

Switching to low carb bread is a smart move for those looking to stay lean and energized year around and especially suitable for lighter summer dishes. Low carb options often replace traditional wheat with healthier alternatives like quinoa, spelt, and rye flour, which significantly reduce carb intake while increasing fiber and protein levels. These changes can help stabilize blood sugar, increase feelings of fullness, and avoid carb drowsiness, which is especially beneficial during the active summer months.

And here’s the most important part: you’ll be able to whip up sandwiches for the beach in crazy quantities and still not go overboard with carbs. Incorporating low carb bread from Sola (The Sola Company) into your diet is not only a tasty way to enjoy sandwiches and toast but also supports a healthier lifestyle. Opting for these alternatives allows you to enjoy the season’s festivities without feeling weighed down.

4. Avocados

Forget avocado toast—avocados are versatile enough to star in any meal. Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, they help absorb other fat-soluble vitamins which are vital for maintaining optimal health. Avocados also boast a high potassium content (beating even bananas) which supports muscle strength and recovery essential if you’re planning to hit the beach every day or try some new jumps at the pool.

This creamy fruit is also rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and helping to keep you full and satisfied longer. Try them in a salad, or smoothie, or just eat them straight with a spoon! And okay, fine, you can have an avocado toast as well.

5. Cold Brew Coffee

Kick off your day with a chill and a buzz by swapping your steaming morning cuppa for a cold brew. This isn’t just your average iced coffee; it’s a smooth operator. Cold brew coffee takes its sweet time, steeping coarsely ground beans in cold water for hours, which makes it way smoother and less acidic than its fiery counterpart.

This gentle giant is easier on your tummy and pops the rich flavors of the beans like no other, giving you a cooler, tastier way to hit that caffeine spot. Perfect for sizzling summer mornings or a refreshing mid-afternoon boost. Jazz it up with some ice cubes or a splash of almond milk, and you’ve got yourself a cold brew that’s as cool as it gets.

What to Avoid

First and foremost, limit your alcohol consumption. While refreshing beverages like cocktails and ice beers are popular at summer celebrations, alcohol causes severe dehydration, which is especially dangerous in the summer heat. The same goes for overprocessed foods. These foods typically include high levels of salt and few essential nutrients, which can lead to water retention and lower nutrient absorption.

Finally, try to stay away from filling meals that are high in fat and carbohydrates. You risk feeling lethargic and sluggish after eating these meals, which makes it more difficult to enjoy summertime activities. Eating lighter, more nutrient-dense meals is the way to go.

The Takeaway

To keep things simple and not overwhelm you, try these five tips this summer, and you’ll be surprised what kind of difference small changes can make. You’ll look fresh, feel energized, and be ready to tackle the heat.