It is estimated that as many as 75% of Americans are dehydrated. Proper hydration means more than drinking enough water. The type of hydration that you receive from fruits and vegetables tends to hydrate our bodies more efficiently due to the presence of natural electrolytes. Eating these cooling foods during the summer will help you both cool down and hydrate during these hot summer months.

Watermelon- A summer favorite, watermelon does more than just taste good on a hot day. Watermelon is hydrating, cooling and is a natural diuretic. If that’s not enough this low-calorie wonder fruit is also rich in vitamins A and C. For a great cooling Watermelon Salad recipe check out our blog post from earlier this month.

Cucumber- Water-based foods are cooling. Considering cumber is 96% water it fits that bill! Cucumbers are low in calories and high in nutrients. Rich in vitamins C, K and minerals potassium, magnesium and manganese, this summer vegetable is a welcome additional to any summer salad, made into a cold soup, or juiced.

Mint- While spices like cayenne and ginger are considering warming, herbs like mint and chamomile are considered cooling. Mint creates a cooling sensation by stimulating the nerves in your tongue which create the feeling of cold. The super-fresh tasting, cooling herb can be added to cold soups, salads or in the form of a hot or iced tea.

All lettuce- Whether it be Bibb, Romaine or Boston, all lettuce is cooling. Most often used as the base for salads, lettuce can also be grilled (think grilled Caesar salad) or used as a wrap for low carb bread replacement.

We hope you enjoy!

This blog is a collaboration by

Dr. Morrison and Tapp Francke.