According to ancient traditions such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, writes Silvena Rowe, it’s believed that foods can have a warming, drying, moistening or cooling effect on the body. It’s important that these energetic properties are balanced through diet.
If our bodies are too hot, or 'overly yang' – we might experience perspiration, thirst, constipation, anxiety, headaches, a rapid pulse or heartburn. We can chill out by eating raw and cooling foods which will calm our blood, help eliminate toxins and ultimately 'nourish yin'.
To help combat the negative effects that scorching summer climes have on our bodies, I suggest adding some of the following foods to your shopping list…
Dark leafy greens
These are composed of 80-95 per cent water, which makes them very easy to digest. As they move through the digestive system they impart a cooling sensation in the body. Some of my favourite greens are kale, cavolo nero and Swiss chard.
Sea vegetables
Nori, kombi, wakame, arame and sea palm are all great sea vegetables that are extremely 'yin'. They’re high in calcium, iron, phosphorous and vitamins. Try using kelp flakes instead of table salt for seasoning, or use your favourite sea vegetable in a salad, cold soup or miso soup.
Watermelon
This low-calorie fruit is made up of more than 90 per cent water, which assists in keeping you hydrated in the heat. In addition, it contains vitamins A and C, and is packed with lycopene, a potent antioxidant which may aid in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Coconuts
These really should be a staple ingredient in everyone’s diet. Young coconut meat is tender and delicious while fresh coconut water is very hydrating. Both offer a range of health benefits and cooling effects on the body.
Here in the UAE, we at Spinneys are especially lucky to have coconuts readily available, delivered fresh from all over the world.
Cool foods delivered to your door
Fresh products every day
AED 16.25 / Each
Spinneysfood organic broccoli florets Kenya 250g
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Berries
According to Chinese medicine, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries and cranberries are all alkaline, 'yin' fruits that generate cold energy in the body. They’re great as quick summer snacks.
The fresh taste of berries
A versatile fruit that are packed with health benefits
