5 Summer Myths Vs Facts About Food By Nutritionist Neha Ranglani

The need to prioritize your holistic well-being is of paramount importance given the soaring and record-shattering high temperatures this year. With the #HealthySummerWithActivLiving campaign, we urge you to adhere to a balanced diet, focus on your fitness, and be of sound mind to lead a healthy lifestyle.

Summer is upon us and we have all adjusted our diets to stay cool as temperatures rise. From cooling juices like watermelon and coconut to cooling foods like corn, curds, and cucumber, your summer diet is designed to beat the heat. However, some common health tips for the summer are not always correct. Here are 5 popular summer season food and nutrition myths debunked by Neha Ranglani, your Summer Nutrition expert.

What You Should Know:

• Myth 1: Mangoes and bananas are fattening
• Myth 2: Chilled liquids help you cool down
• Myth 3: Watermelons are not nutritious
• Myth 4: Spicy and hot foods will make you feel hotter
• Myth 5: Skipping meals makes you feel lighter

Myth 1: Mangoes and bananas are fattening

Mangoes are the most popular seasonal summer food in India. However, both mangoes and bananas are considered to be heavy and fattening fruits. However, you should note that an average mango contains only half the calories you can get from a single piece of cake. 

Mangoes and bananas are loaded with nutrients that build immunity and are high on fibre. However, both these fruits also have a high sugar content. Which is why people with diabetes and high blood sugar should eat these fruits in moderation.

Myth 2: Chilled liquids help you cool down

When you consume liquids at a cold temperature it slows down your digestion. This increases the toxins in your body. This is why you should consider drinking liquids that are only slightly cool or at room lower temperature. You can also consider drinking fresh lime juice with mint leaves and sabja seeds to keep your body cool. 

Myth 3: Watermelons are not nutritious

Watermelons are cooling and healthy summer food that we all enjoy. However, because of its cooling properties its nutritional properties are often ignored. Watermelons are a hydrating food with low-calorie count. They are also a rich source of Vitamin C and lycopene which protects your skin from harsh sun rays. 

Myth 4: Spicy and hot foods will make you feel hotter

Unless you live in humid conditions, a warm cup of tea or coffee might be better for you than iced coffee or tea. When you drink a hot drink the heat inside your body escapes as sweat and evaporates in the heat, leaving your body cooler. This same logic also applies when you eat spicy foods that make you sweat. 

Myth 5: Skipping meals makes you feel lighter

When you don’t eat according to your hunger it increases the heat and acidity in your body. It is better to eat as per your hunger and in small portions throughout the day instead of skipping meals.  

You can also find tips on nutrition and fitness along with timely health updates on our Activ Living blog. Neha Ranglani is an Indian integrative nutritionist, dietician, blogger, writer, speaker, and plant-based nutrition coach. She is ready to answer your questions on diet and nutrition so don’t wait, #ABHIKaro. Ask your questions to us in the comments to enjoy Activ Living in the Summer.