Healthy summer fruits

You all know summer is the time to switch to shorts and flip-flops, but did you know it’s also the right time to change your diet? Being outdoors more often leads you to sweating, ups your risk for health problems like dehydration, skin sensitivities, vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The simple solution is to eat seasonal fruits as their nutrition is at its peak. Here is a list of few fruits you should consume during the hottest time of year.

1. Watermelon – Staying hydrated keeps your memory sharp and mood stable. It helps keep your body cool (by sweating) during raised temperatures. You don’t only have to drink water to keep yourself hydrated. You can eat too: watermelon is 92 percent water. Eating foods that are full of water helps keep you satisfied on few calories. If you eat watermelon on a daily basis, it can improve your cardiovascular health and protect your eyes and immune system.
2. Corn - Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn. Corn is high in starch, which makes it a complex carbohydrate that provides high energy, unlike refined carbohydrates. Corn is loaded with antioxidants--most carotenoids like zeaxanthin and lutein which supports your eye health.
3. Tomatoes – There’s no doubt that wearing sunscreen is your first line of defence during summers. But did you know eating tomatoes could give you a little extra protection: consuming more lycopene - the carotenoid that makes tomatoes red—may protect your skin from sunburn. Eating tomatoes appears to slow down skin ageing.
4. Raspberries – They often get unnoticed – but it is a great source of fiber. It is low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Berries are loaded with water, which keep you hydrated and are good for your blood sugar levels as well as keeping you feel full. Not only eating, you can apply them as a face mask which can balance, tone and remove impurities from your skin.
5. Cherries – It is rich in fiber and help ensure proper bowel functioning. They help to activate heat-removing channels in the body such as looser stools and more frequent urination. Cherries have a great taste and are also rich in a number of vitamins and nutrients that makes them one of the healthiest summer fruits.
6. Mango – The king of fruits is an absolute delight during summers. It contains a number of vitamins and nutrients. Vitamins A, C, D, iron, potassium and calcium are found in abundance in mangoes. The high levels of pectin and fibres available in mangoes reduce cholesterol levels of the body and the other nutrients control the blood pressure and heart rate. It consists of immunity strengthening properties and will help you get through the season.
7. Musk Melon - It is considered as the most nutrient dense melon. A single serving can cater around half our daily vitamin C and A needs. Musk melons are also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which boost eyesight. The pulpy fruit provides a hydrating effect in this energy sucking weather.