NUTRIWELHEALTH, promoted by Dr. Shikha Sharma believes in the natural way of achieving health rather than artificial methods. Here NUTRIHEALTH is giving some tips to protect youself from some of the health risks that come along with summers .Know about different juicy fruits and vegetables which come in summers that are not only a store house of nutrients but serve as a umbrella in keeping different health problems at bay.

1. SUMMER FOODS<br />At the outset when summers are round the corner, the million dollar question bothering everyone is –How to protect oneself from some of the health risks that come along with summers? Summers which is the warmest of the four seasons on one hand bring a variety in terms of different foods but on the other hand also brings additional risks to health as the extreme temperatures increase chances of heat stroke, dehydration, sun burns, hyperthermia etc.As per Ayurveda too, the sudden increase in temperature leads to vitiation (imbalance) of doshas thereby leading to health problems.<br />However little precaution coupled with incorporation of right foods and lifestyle modification not just helps in prevention health problems but maintains a balance of the doshas thereby making summers an enjoyable experience. Different juicy fruits and vegetables really come as a blessing of the nature at this point of time as they are not just a store house of nutrients but serve as a umbrella in keeping different health problems at bay.<br />Watermelon<br />Watermelon is a good source of potassium and magnesium which are very much needed in summers.. Potassium works with sodium and chloride as an electrolyte in the body to balance water levels in the body thereby preventing dehydration and regulates blood pressure. Magnesium promotes heart health and is important for building strong bones and reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis. <br />Watermelons are also rich in B vitamins, specifically B1 and B6, both of which provide the body energy. Vitamin B1 also helps to keep the heart, brain, and nervous system running well, while vitamin B6 is an immune booster.Watermelon is rich in vitamin C and lycopene too. The vitamin C, vitamin A, and lycopene in watermelon act as powerful antioxidants that protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals such as skin damage.<br />Papaya<br />Papaya is great for improving skin health. Its rich invitamin E content delays aging by minimizing the formation of wrinkles and giving the skin a healthy glow. It also helps to reduce sunburn. Papaya improves digestive health which aids in minimizing the risk of Diarrhea, a most prevalent problem of sunny days.<br />Guava<br />Guava is very rich in astringents. These astringents are alkaline in nature and have disinfectant and anti-bacterial properties, thus help cure dysentery by inhibiting microbial growth and removing extra mucus from the intestines in tropical climate. Guava is one of the riches sources of dietary fiber. Its seeds, if ingested whole or chewed, serve as excellent laxatives. These two properties of guava help forming bowels, retaining water and clean your intestines and excretory system thoroughly.<br />Cucumber<br />The flesh of cucumbers is primarily composed of water but also contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumbers’ hard skin is rich in fiber and contains a variety of beneficial minerals including silica, potassium and magnesium. The silica in cucumber is an essential component of healthy connective tissue, which includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bone.<br />Cucumber also has a cleansing action within the body and helps in removing accumulated pockets of old waste material and chemical toxins. Cucumber may also have the power to relax and alleviate the sunburn's irritation.<br />Mango<br />Mango enjoys the unique place among the summer fruits. One of the most delicious fruits it contains number of health benefits. The phenolic compound found in mangoes has been found to have powerful antioxidant and anticancer properties. Mango is believed to be effective in relieving clogged pores of the skin. Mangoes have been found to be quite helpful in treating acidity and poor digestion. <br />Kiwi<br />Kiwi fruit provides an excellent source of vitamin C. It also offers a very good source of fiber. Kiwi contains decent amounts of vitamins A and E, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and copper. Vitamin-C helps to neutralize free radicals develop from exposure to UV rays. Vitamin-A helps to maintain the integrity of eyes and prevent the damage. Same as Vitamin –E binds the skin and aids in providing glowing skin in even extreme sunny days.<br />Musk Melon<br />Muskmelon is a good source of vitamin C, which is an anti-oxidant. This helps to prevent heart diseases and even cancer. It has beta-carotene too. Researches reveal the fact that the combination of beta-carotene and vitamin c can prevent many chronic conditions. Muskmelon takes care of skin too. It contains Vitamin A, which is useful in maintaining healthy skin. The fruit provides pretty fair amount of folic acid which acts as a mild antidepressant.<br />Litchi<br />Litchi seed in traditional Chinese medicine is used to produce fluids and promote energy circulation. Thus litchi is often used in a mixture or tonic to promote general well being or energy. <br />Increase energy level<br />Increase body fluids needed for good health. <br />Increase feeling of well being.<br />Cherries<br />Cherries red pigment is called anthocyanins; this pigment has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation. It is also a powerful antioxidant.Cherries help stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and of the urine and are effective cleansers of the liver and Kidneys. <br />Black Currants<br />Black currants are very rich in many phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, essential fatty acids and minerals. In particular, black currants are renowned for their high content in Vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant), GLA (Gamma-Linoleic Acid, a very rare Omega-6 essential fatty acid) and potassium. They have been shown to have twice the potassium of bananas, four times the vitamin C of oranges, and twice the antioxidants of blueberries.<br />Pine Apple<br />Pineapples have exceptional juiciness and a vibrant tropical flavor that balances the tastes of sweet and tart. Bromelain is a complex mixture of substances that can be extracted from the stem and core fruit of the pineapple. Bromelain helpful for typical injuries that occur during summer sports activities. Pineapple is an excellent source the trace mineral manganese, which is an essential cofactor in a number of enzymes important in energy production and antioxidant defenses.<br />Apple<br />Apple is a rich source of flavonoid and polyphenols both are powerful antioxidants. Apple contains malic acid and tartaric acid, that can help prevent disturbances of the liver and digestion. Apple cider vinegar when used as beverage can help to prevent the formation of kidney stone. The skin of Apple contains pectin that can help remove toxic substances from the system by supplying galacturonic acid. Pectin helps prevent protein matter in the intestine from spoiling.<br />Apart from these fruits, stress should be laid on inclusion cooling cereals and herbs as well.<br />Barley<br />Barley is not just cool in nature but is also rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids essential for our health. More importantly, barley is one of the richest sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber.Insoluble fiber aids in proper excretion of waste products in the body, while soluble fiber (known as beta glucan) mixes with liquid, binds to fatty substances and allows them to leave the body. Barley is also seen to be rich in tocotrienols, which is an antioxidant which helps lessen risk for contracting heart disease and cholesterol problems<br />Mint <br />Mint is a storehouse of many vitamins and minerals and helps in soothing the systems in summers.<br />Besides above mentioned foods, one must not forget to include lot of water as it not only helps one in quenching the thirst but also keep the systems hydrated .Liquids other than water like buttermilk are also a good idea of replenishing the lost fluids.<br />