Fruit and vegetables to combat the heat

One of the keys to beating (or coping well with) the heat is to drink plenty of water, they say. When we hear the word ”hydration”, the first thing that comes to mind is a huge glass of water (or for some, a bottle of beer fresh from the fridge). But we forget that there are some foods, such as certain fruits and vegetables, that contain a high water content and help to keep our bodies hydrated.

Here is a small list of vegetables and fruits that will help you successfully overcome the hottest days of the year while providing you with vitamins, fibre and health!

• Carrots: rich in beta-carotene, as well as refreshing the body, they help to boost your tan.
• Broccoli: Contains up to 91% water.
• Spinach: Contains 92% water, as well as fibre and iron.
• Tomato: perfect for salads, cold soups and gazpachos. Apart from its high water content, it contains a large amount of nutrients, it is rich in vitamins C, A, E, B6, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. It contains fibre, lycopene (natural skin regenerator) and is low in sodium.
• Cucumber: 96% water, controls blood sugar, lowers blood pressure, low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is also great in gazpacho, salads and infused in water with lemon/lime and mint.
• Watermelon: Who thinks of ”summer in Mallorca” automatically thinks of eating a slice of cold watermelon for dessert or on the beach. It is hydrating, diuretic, purifies the body, protects the neurological system, good for the heart health and very refreshing!
• Melon: Like watermelon, it has a high water content, is hydrating, helps with fluid retention, contains beta-carotene, vitamin C and B, folic acid, potassium, magnesium and calcium. Perfect for juices, smoothies, sorbets, to include in salads or to eat as is.
• Plums: Known for preventing constipation and facilitating intestinal transit thanks to their high fibre content, they also contain calcium, potassium, copper, zinc and vitamins A, C and K.
• Grapes: 80% of their content is water, they are high in antioxidants, have diuretic, dilating, bone-healthy and folic properties. They also reduce the risk of diabetes.

All these summer seasonal vegetables and fruits can be found locally, seasonal and Km0 in the shop of S’Hort de Sa Vall (open Thursdays from 11h to 16h and Fridays from 17h to 23:30h) or from Monday to Saturday in the fruit shop ”Fruites i Verdures Na Camel.la” in Manacor.