Beat the summer! the monsoon is around the corner but there has been no letup in the heat. Indian summers can be devastating; they can elevate your body temperature, cause dehydration, fatigue and even heat stroke. Put these 10 cooling foods on the menu to soothe the body from the inside and flush out toxins.

1. Coconut water

Coconut water has always been a beach companion for a reason. It has cooling properties and contains essential minerals and electrolytes to hydrate the body. It also rejuvenates the skin.

2. Watermelon

It is the summer fruit offers internal cooling and acts as a thirst quencher. It has approximately 95 percent of water, which is good for hydrating and makes a top summer weight loss food!

3. Cucumber

According to New York’s Eleven Eleven Wellness Center’s certified health coach, Kerry Bajaj, cucumbers are highly hydrating and provide the body with essential nutrients, vitamins A and C, folic acid and fibre. They can be consumed raw and can also be used to make salads, raita or green smoothies.

4. Zucchini

A great addition to the salad bowl, zucchini works extremely well as a hydrating food for the body and the skin. It also has vitamins A and C and dietary fibre that will keep you healthy.

5. Lemon

This citrus fruit is a given when it comes to cooling foods. It hydrates, cools, detoxifies the body and boosts immunity. It can be used in various forms, with water as a lemon cooler and squeezed over food items for taste.

6. Bananas

Bananas are the best cooling agent that also moisturise the intestinal system and clear up toxic build-up. They work extremely well as a pre-workout snack!

7. Leafy Green Vegetables

As per food scientist Barry Swanson at Washington State University, spinach, kale, collard greens and romaine have about 80 to 90 percent of water. These superfoods are beneficial in many ways, including their ability to hydrate the body and cool down body temperature.

8. Bottle gourd

Health experts are unanimous about the numerous benefits of lauki, along with its hydrating capacity as it consists of about 96 per cent water. Apart from reducing excessive heat it also helps in digestion and weight loss.

9. Mushrooms

All mushrooms, but particularly Crimini mushrooms have known to be rich with different vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. These nutritional features make it a great addition to the menu! Add to that the yummy taste!

10. Berries

All berries, be it strawberry, blackberry, raspberry or cranberry, have a cooling effect on the body. Their benefits have also found mention in traditional Chinese Medicine. Adding them to your fruit bowl or creating a health drink can help block out the sun!

You can even use some of these cooling foods to make cold infused waters! Enjoy the summer while it lasts!