The transition from spring to summer brings with it warmer temperatures. It seems like the switch happens jarringly-- 60 degree averages suddenly jump to over 80. The late evenings and early mornings can still be cool, so it's easy to forget that we still need to prioritize small things to support our bodies as they adjust to warmer ambient temperatures. Who wants to be running hot on a 90 degree day? Not me! One thing that can help is avoiding iced drinks, instead reaching for foods and drinks that cool us down from the inside.

Western society is all about the icy drinks. Soda, coffee, even water is served with copious amounts of ice at restaurants. It seems our answer to cooling down is to shock our system. Have you ever had a drink that was so cold, you got an ice-cream headache? How about stomach cramping? This happens due to a nerve response to the sudden contraction of blood vessels. 

In Ayurvedic Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine, they strongly discourage consuming iced or even chilled beverages. According to these schools of thought, a large part of overall wellness originates in the digestive system. Digestion is considered our internal “fire” that gives us energy and affects how we feel. When our digestive system is functioning well, we have less inflammation throughout the body and we can regulate our body temperature better. In order for the digestive process to run smoothly, it needs to be approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit. When cold foods or drinks are introduced, it can drop that ideal temperature, causing digestion to become sluggish. Sluggish digestion, then, leads to a whole myriad of internal issues, including inflammation and overheating.

“But I live for my iced Starbucks coffee!” you say. I’m not saying NEVER enjoy an iced bevy. I’m just saying that a few mindful choices may support a healthier, more balanced system, which can help you stay cool. Instead of relying on changing the temperature of the foods and beverages you consume during the summer months, focus on the ingredients themselves. 

Many fresh fruits support cooling and hydration of the body by offering electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge when dissolved in liquid. Key electrolytes needed by the body are calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium, among others. Electrolytes help reduce bloating and regulate fluid levels. They can also help keep your muscles from cramping while working in the garden or putting in a new fence on a toasty day. Foods like Avocado, Melon, Banana, Berries, Citrus, Coconut, Cucumber, and Mint offer the body hydration, electrolytes, reduced internal heat, and support digestion for an overall cooling effect. 

Whether  you’re having that small gathering or packing your food for your work day, here are some fun food and drink ideas to add to your arsenal to stay cool.

Hibiscus Cooler

Use hibiscus and mint tea bags, or buy bulk Hibiscus and mint from your local market. (We use Mountain Rose Herbs). Steep in hot, almost boiling water for 5 minutes. Cover it while it steeps (this keeps the essential oils and beneficial qualities inside, rather than releasing them as steam). Optionally, add fresh mint after steeping and take out any tea bags. Once room temperature, add grape/cranberry/mixed berry juice, or a splash of seltzer water for a fizzy drink.

Cucumber Citrus Refresh

Add sliced cucumber (peeled or not, it’s up to you), fresh mint sprigs, the juice of one lemon, and optional sweetener of your choice to a large pitcher of water and let sit for at least 30 minutes.

“Let’s Chill” Fruit Salad

Watermelon, cubed
Honeydew, cubed
Cantaloupe, cubed
Mint, chopped finely
½ tbsp Lemon Juice
1 tbsp Orange Juice
Fresh berries of your choice

Toss all the fruit into a large bowl. Add the lemon and orange juice, and gently stir to coat. Top with finely chopped mint and enjoy!

With a little prep and foresight, we can stay cool during these gorgeous days, without compromising fun or wellness. By staying clear of overly iced beverages and instead utilizing the cooling properties of natural foods, and planning outdoor activities for cooler times of the day, you can stay cool and healthy this summer. 

May you and yours be safe and have a wonderful sunny season. Don’t forget sunscreen!

Be Well,
Lily Lunnemann