Dragging yourself through the day feeling sluggish? The summer heat can be a real energy zapper. But before you resign yourself to a season of naps and lethargy, there’s a solution!
By making smart adjustments to your diet, you can keep your energy levels up and conquer the heatwave. Dr Srikanth HS, Assistant Chief Medical Officer at Jindal Naturecure Institute, revealed how a strategic shift in your diet can be your secret weapon against fatigue.
Why does heat zap your energy?
Our bodies work overtime in the summer heat. To maintain a constant internal temperature, your metabolism ramps up, burning more energy. Sweating, essential for cooling down, also leads to fluid loss and disrupts your electrolyte balance, explained Dr Srikanth.
Add in activities like sports or simply being more active in warmer weather, and your energy stores deplete even faster. During a heatwave, this effect intensifies, requiring even more energy to combat the extreme temperatures, he added.
Fueling your body for optimal performance
What’s your diet like? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
The key to staying energised lies in strategic eating. Here’s how your diet can support you, said Dr Srikanth:
Hydration Heroes: Fruits and vegetables like cucumber, watermelon, and strawberries are water-rich powerhouses. They help replenish fluids lost through sweating and keep you hydrated.
Electrolyte Power Up: Sweating depletes electrolytes like potassium and sodium. Bananas, coconut water, and other electrolyte-rich foods help restore these minerals and maintain proper muscle function.
Long-lasting Energy Boost: Complex carbohydrates, found in whole grains, legumes, and sweet potatoes, provide sustained energy. They digest slowly, preventing the dreaded energy crashes that simple carbs can cause.
Muscle Builders: Lean protein sources like pulses and tofu are crucial for muscle repair and recovery, especially after physical activity.
Supercharge your energy with these superfoods
Dr Srikanth recommended eating these foods for a steady supply of energy in this summer
Complex Carbs: Whole grains, oats, and sweet potatoes (sustained energy)
Lean Protein: Pulses, legumes (muscle repair and energy production)
Iron-Rich Foods: Spinach, lentils (improved oxygen delivery, combats fatigue)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Walnuts, flaxseeds (cognitive function and sustained energy)
By incorporating these dietary tips, you can transform your summer diet into an energy powerhouse. Remember, a healthy and balanced approach, rich in nutrient-dense and hydrating foods, empowers your body to burn fuel efficiently and conquer the heat!
