Looking to shake up your summer diet?
We’re at the peak of summer, but the high season isn’t over just yet. And while we’re still in the thick of it, here are 7 season summer foods you need to add to your diet!
1. Strawberries
Arguably one of the best fruits around. But apart from the great taste, did you know they’re super good foryou too? Eating strawberries is linked to a reduced risk of many chronic diseases and cancers. The humble red berry is also high in Vitamin C and also serves as a decent dose of folate (vitamin B9), and potassium.
2. Melons
Our next contender comes in all shapes and sizes – all good for you and all delish! Whether we’re talking about cantaloupe, honeydew, or watermelon, all are great options and great sources of Vitamin C. What better way to stay hydrated in the summer heat than a cool melon slice by the pool?
3. Plums
Boasting a whopping 87% water content, these purple gems are another key way to beat the summer heat. They’re also great for bone health because they contain polyphenol antioxidants. These antioxidants may also help reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Guess we’ll be opting for plum sauce for the next Chinese night…
4. Cherries
This dynamic pair packs a punch and we’ve got a list to prove it. Cherries are bursting with essential vitamins and minerals. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, and have good doses of vitamin B, manganese, copper, magnesium, and vitamin K. To top it off, they’re also especially high in polyphenols, which fight cellular damage and reduce inflammation.
5. Prickly Pears
A bonus and underrated fruit that we’re lucky enough to have in Malta! Prickly pears are worth a shout out because of the high levels of fibre that they boast. This helps with reducing body fat, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels significantly. .
6. Zucchini
Shifting gears to the savoury side, we’ve got an all-rounder. Zucchini are the ultimate summer food if you’re looking to cut down on excess eating… even when there’s a dessert table at the bbq. Low-calorie, low in sodium, fat, carbs, and cholesterol. You can’t go wrong with it. As a bonus, zucchini are also high in fibre so it will slow digestion and keep you feeling fuller for longer!
7. Cucumber
Zucchini’s distant cousin – likewise they’re equally as great for you. Low in calories, carbohydrates, sodium, fat, and cholesterol but full of water at 95% water content! They also have lignans and cucurbitacins which are associated with anti-cancer benefits. Not to mention they have decent doses of vitamins A and K, magnesium, potassium, and manganese.
Have we intrigued you to try out these summer super foods yet?
