Ice cream, potatoes, barbecues… culinary temptations abound in summer. Although summer is a good time to eat them, it's important to remember that many are not good for your body.
Foods not recommended
Too much fat, whether sweet or salty, affects not only our weight, but also our skin, hair and even our oral health. Find out, in the words of experts, which foods you should avoid, or at least only eat in exceptional cases.
Foods with a high sugar content
Foods with a high sugar content are the first to be thrown out, and not just because of their caloric intake. “We usually associate summer with the consumption of ice cream, soft drinks, cocktails and sweets, which generally contain high levels of sugar. These foods are highly detrimental to our oral health, as the bacteria present in our mouths feed on these sugars, producing acids that damage tooth enamel and this can lead to the development of cavities and weaken tooth structure,” explain the experts at Sermade, the only mobile dental clinic authorized by the Madrid Community Health Department.
Red meat and fried foods
Red meat is also not recommended in hot weather. More fatty and difficult to digest than white meat, it causes a rise in body temperature. Fried products and sausages are other conflicting foods. They contain a high percentage of fat and salt, which leads to dehydration.
Foods to avoid for better digestion
In conclusion, it's advisable to avoid “foods that require more effort to digest, those rich in proteins, sugars and fiber, as they automatically generate more body heat”, confirmed nutritionist Kerry Torrents to the BBC.
Recommended foods
Some foods, on the other hand, are particularly recommended for their properties. “Avocados, olive oil, walnuts and oily fish are just some of the foods rich in healthy fats that are perfect for summer meals,” say the experts at DO EAT!, the restaurant chain that pioneered the Fast&Good concept.
The benefits of peaches
The experts at Juice Plus+, a leader in nutrition and wellness, recommend peaches: “Juicy and delicious, they are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. These delicious seasonal fruits not only help boost the immune system, but are also beneficial for the skin and eyesight.
Watermelon, for hydration and refreshment
Watermelon also stands out: “with its high water content, it's the best option for staying hydrated and refreshed this summer. As well as being a great way to stay hydrated, watermelon provides essential nutrients like lycopene, which promotes cardiovascular and cognitive health.”
Zucchini, a slimming ally
As for vegetables, they choose zucchini: “low in calories, but rich in fiber. It's the ideal companion for maintaining a balanced diet. One of its lesser-known benefits is that it's a source of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and manganese, which help protect the body against oxidative stress.”
Figs, a natural source of energy
They also mention figs: “They are a natural source of energy and contain important minerals such as potassium, which contributes to healthy muscle and nerve function. They are also rich in magnesium, linked to stress and anxiety reduction, which can contribute to better mental health.”
The benefits of apricots
Finally, apricots: “these berries are rich in vitamin E, which promotes healthy skin and hair. They also provide a good dose of iron, which aids in the production of red blood cells and maintains adequate energy levels”.
Summary
My name is Maggie and I'm a writer for thesilverink.com, a website dedicated to news, culture and lifestyle. I have always been passionate about writing and I decided to make it my profession by becoming a web editor. I work on counterpoint.info and I mainly take care of the lifestyle section. I like to share my discoveries and my favorites with the readers, whether it's about fashion, beauty, decoration or gastronomy.
