Keep Cool With These Refreshing Foods
Beat the heat with cold, health-boosting foods.
Beat the heat with cold, health-boosting foods. – By Dr. Liz Applegate
Run Longer: Slushies
A 2011 study found that having a slushie flavoured with sugar syrup pre-run can help you run 20% longer than drinking cold water with the same amount of syrup. The slushie cools you down better than cold water, preventing overheating.
Chill out: Top shaved ice with real fruit syrups. Or blend up frozen berries, juice, and honey. Pour over shaved ice.
Combat Inflammation: Cold Soups
Refreshing, chilled soups made from colourful vegetables offer a wide range of antioxidants that help combat inflammation. Soups made from fresh summer fruits make for a healthy dessert that packs carbs and fibre.
Chill out: Make gazpacho: Purée 500g ripe tomatoes and half a cucumber. Add a cup of plain yoghurt; garnish with basil.
Boost Immune Health: Frozen Yoghurt
A new wave of frozen yoghurt shops has introduced the creamy dessert with a tart kick. Compared to grocery-store versions, this fro-yo contains more live cultures that promote gastro-intestinal health and boost immune system strength.
Chill out: Top frozen vanilla yoghurt with fresh fruit and chopped nuts for added antioxidants and healthy fats.
Increase Circulation: Ice Lollies
Ice lollies can be healthy – just check the ingredients list. Commercial brands made from real fruit and with no added sugar supply vitamin C and potassium; both are vital for healthy circulation.
Chill out: Make your own ice lollies: Blend up your favourite summer fruit; pour into lolly moulds and freeze.
Speed Recovery: Fruit Smoothies
Creamy and cool, fruit smoothies provide everything you need to recover post-workout, including carbs and protein. A recent study found that fruit extracts can help lower measures of oxidative stress following a strength-training session.
Chill out: Whether bought or home-made, make sure your smoothie has about 15 grams of muscle-building protein.
Cut Back On Fat: Gelato
Gelato actually has less butter fat than ice cream. Half a cup contains 630kJ and 4 grams of fat (versus 850 or more kilojoules and 8 grams of fat for ice cream), making for a healthier indulgence.
Chill out: Look for gelato made with real fruit – and stick to half a cup.
