HT City

Tomato to zucchini, best healthy foods for summer linked to increasing heart health and lowering cholestero­l. and extra fluid from your body, which beats bloat in your tummy. in controllin­g your appetite.

- (With inputs from wellness expert Manoj Kutteri and nutrition specialist Raheela Hasan)

No food list for summers can be complete without fruits such as watermelon and mangoes. Let’s check out other nutrient-packed seasonal fruits and veggies that can help you avoid dehydratio­n and nutritiona­l deficienci­es as the mercury hits the roof.

TOMATOES

While tomatoes are filled with antioxidan­ts and Vitamin C, they also contain beneficial phytochemi­cals, such as lycopene, which contribute­s to prevention of chronic diseases, especially cancer.

ZUCCHINI

Part of the summer squash family, zucchini contains a fibre called pectin, which is

YOGHURT

Protein-packed and portioncon­trolled, yoghurt is perfect for summer. The protein satisfies your growling tummy, which will keep you from overloadin­g on salty, high-calorie snacks. It also adds a dose of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that keeps your digestive system running smoothly.

CELERY AND FENNEL

These act as diuretics, helping you lose excess water weight without causing dehydratio­n. The ingredient­s in these stimulate your kidneys, causing them to flush waste

MINT WATER WITH LEMON

One glass of strained mint water with two drops of lemon works can wonders in the sweltering heat. Not only does it act as a liver cleanser, but also boosts your metabolism and helps those with a low appetite.

BARLEY WATER

Experts suggest having two glasses a day of barley water (a drink made by boiling barley in water). In case you find it bland, add a drop of lemon or honey for taste. Since barley water is rich in fibre, it prevents constipati­on and also helps

WATERMELON

A hydration tank, this keeps you cool and hydrated. The high water content will also keep you feeling full, which could curb cravings. As an added summer bonus, watermelon also contains lycopene, which protects skin cells from sun damage.

CUCUMBER

Another summer favourite, cucumber has an alkaline producing effect on the body. The high water content in it cleanses the body by removing toxic and waste materials.

 ?? PHOTO:: ISTOCK ??
PHOTO:: ISTOCK

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