Foods to Cool the Body

CEBU, Philippines – The heat from yesterday's exposure to the fierce sun in yesterday's Sinulog Grand Parade may still be lingering on for many. And the heat may now be trapped inside the body due to sun-burnt skin. If you're one of the sufferers and you want to beat the heat, skip the ice cream and reach for these eats to cool down your body naturally.

Take note that foods that seem like chill choices may have the opposite effect. According to traditional Chinese medicine, there exist "warming foods" and "cooling foods." "It is said that the cooling foods help to clear heat and toxins from the body, whereas the warming foods increase circulation and raise 'qi' or vital energy," explains Kerry Bajaj, certified health coach at Eleven Eleven Wellness Center in New York City. The following foods have been proven to provide some sweet, healthy relief from the heat.

Banana. This fruit is most common. It is not only yummy and filling, it is also widely available. There's banana sold in the mall supermarkets, in the neighborhood markets, and being peddled by ambulant vendors. And banana come at a very affordable price.

Watermelon. No day at the beach is complete without some fresh slices of watermelon, and you're actually doing your body a favor by keeping the tradition alive. Foods like watermelon can help mitigate heat in the body. It also keep the body hydrated.

Cucumber. Being "cool as a cucumber" might actually have some weight to it. Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating, and staying adequately hydrated during the hot season is crucial. Snack on cucumber slices and hummus, or if you're truly desperate for some heat relief, "a green juice with lots of cucumber and lemon is a great way to stay hydrated and cool," says an expert.

Leafy Greens. Is there anything that leafy greens can't do for your body? Spinach, kale, collard greens, and romaine take the nutritional cake for healing and helping your body. Since greens have high water content, they're easy to digest. This means your body doesn't have to work as hard, which saves you energy and keeps you cool.

Pineapple. Along with banana, spinach, and cucumber, pineapple makes for a quick green smoothie booster. In fact, all of these ingredients are considered to be cooling - so blend away! Pineapple is also the only known source of an enzyme called bromelain, which is credited for reducing inflammation in the body.

Apple. Pair an apple with peanut butter for the perfect snack that will cool you down and fill you up. Apple contains about 4 grams fiber for around 95 calories. It also contains a type of soluble fiber called pectin, which has been found to stop hunger in its tracks and aid in weight loss.

Lemon. Citrus has an incredible cooling effect on the body and also promotes detoxification. Everyone knows how important it is to drink plenty of water every day, but plain water can be boring. Time and time again experts recommend adding lemon to drinking water not only for its skin and immune-boosting benefits, but because it actually encourages you to drink more water overall.

Peach. Originally cultivated in China, peaches are another cool pick. Not only are they delicious, but they also contain vitamins A and C, which promote healthy skin, and at 35 to50 calories a pop, they make the perfect diet-friendly dessert.

(www.mensfitness.com)