As the summer heat ramps up, staying cool and hydrated becomes a top priority. While drinking plenty of water is essential, incorporating certain seeds into your diet can also help combat the heat. They replenish electrolytes, keep you hydrated, cool the body, and support skin health. Incorporate them into your diet to beat the heat and stay refreshed during the scorching summer days.
Let’s explore these heat-busting seeds and how they can enhance your summer wellness.
5 seeds that reduce body heat
1.Chia Seeds: Hydration Powerhouses
Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients and an excellent choice for hot summer days. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fibre, chia seeds help maintain hydration and provide a cooling effect.
These tiny seeds are hydrophilic, meaning they can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, they form a gel-like substance, which helps in maintaining hydration levels in your body. Learn how to Use Chia Seeds for Weight Loss
• How to use: Soak them in water for hours, then add soaked chia seeds to your smoothies, or yoghurt, or make a refreshing chia pudding.
2.Flax Seeds: Nutrient-rich and Cooling
Flax seeds are another excellent choice for summer. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and lignans, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These tiny seeds have a mild nutty flavour and can be easily incorporated into your diet.
Flax seeds help reduce the body’s internal temperature, improve digestion and promote hydration, which is crucial during the hot summer months. Here is why Eating More Fiber leads to a Longer Life.
• How to use: Ground flax seeds can be sprinkled on salads, or mixed into smoothies, yoghurt, or salads for a cooling and nutritious boost.
3.Basil Seeds: Traditional Coolers
Basil seeds, also known as sabja or tukmaria seeds, are popular in many Asian cultures for their cooling properties. When soaked in water, they swell up and develop a gelatinous coating, similar to chia seeds.
Basil seeds are rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making them a great addition to your summer diet. They help reduce body heat, improve digestion, and provide a refreshing feeling.
• How to use: Soak basil seeds in water for 10-15 minutes and add them to lemonades, milkshakes, smoothies, or traditional summer drinks like falooda desserts.
4.Watermelon Seeds: Hydration and Nutrition
Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit, but its seeds are also incredibly beneficial. Watermelon seeds are packed with protein, vitamins, magnesium, iron and healthy fats.
They help maintain hydration, regulate body temperature, maintain electrolyte balance and provide a cooling effect, making them perfect for hot summer days.
• How to use: Roast watermelon seeds for a crunchy snack, or add them to salads, trail mixes and smoothies for extra nutrition.
5.Pumpkin Seeds: Refreshing and Energizing
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are a great source of antioxidants, magnesium, and zinc. They have a cooling effect on the body and provide a healthy dose of energy, which can help you stay active and refreshed throughout the summer.
They also contain antioxidants that help protect your cells from heat-induced damage. Pumpkin seeds help regulate body temperature, play crucial roles in hydration and support overall health during hot weather.
• How to use: Enjoy pumpkin seeds as a snack, or sprinkle them over your salads, soups, baked goods and yoghurt. They are versatile and can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes.
How many seeds should you consume?
Remember, a little goes a long way. So, Priyanshi advises incorporating one tablespoon or two of these seeds into your daily diet to boost your nutrient intake and stay healthy, and energised during summer!
Tips for Incorporating Cooling Seeds into Your Diet
1. Smoothies: Add a tablespoon of chia or flax seeds to your favorite smoothie recipe for an extra nutritional punch and cooling effect. Here are 5 Best Antioxidant-Rich Protein Smoothie Recipes
2. Hydrating Drinks: Soak chia seeds in water and add them to lemonades or herbal teas to create a refreshing and cooling beverage.
3. Salads: Sprinkle roasted watermelon seeds over your salads for a crunchy texture and added nutrition. Try the 15-Minute Mexican-Style salad
4. Yogurt Parfaits: Mix chia or flax seeds into your yogurt parfaits for a cooling and filling snack. You can also make this easy Bircher Muesli for Weight Loss
Conclusion
By adding these seeds to your diet, you can enjoy a refreshing and healthy summer while fighting off the heat naturally. Stay cool and hydrated!
Detoxpri 