We humans are equipped- through evolution-with in-built mechanisms to combat the summer heat. Our body temperature stays within acceptable ranges in spite of the variations in the environment around us.

But on occasions, heat strokes and dehydration can and do strike and eating the right foods can prevent this.

The tried and tested items in this food list are onions, green mangoes, wood apple (bael), cucumber and a variety of melons. Eating unripe mangoes, even as chutneys or panna, is an ideal way to beat the heat in the summer.

Melons are loaded with water and eating them is one of the best ways of preventing and countering dehydration. In fact, maintaining good hydration is the basic tenet for summer.

But a there are a few pitfalls there too.

A common habit, drinking ice cold water, is a strict no-no. The body has trouble adjusting to the temperature and loses more energy thereby. So go for cool rather than ice cold water.

Drinks like tea, coffee sodas and alcohol too are not so good. They tend to act as diuretics (drinks that draw out water from the body), thereby increasing our discomfort.

Preference should be given to drinks that are high on potassium, magnesium and calcium. In addition to water, some of the best thirst quenchers are coconut water and lassi.

Traditional ayurvedic and Unani soft drinks prepared with rose petals are also helpful as they keep the body cool. Many brands of such drinks are extremely popular but one must be careful that they are genuine.

Although we need to imbibe a variety of fruits and vegetables to get the essential nutrients, caution has to be exercised when eating such items raw.

Peeled fruits and fresh juice, especially if bought from unhygienic areas, could be potential sources of infection. Contracting a stomach infection may lead to possible dehydration and thereby defeat the very purpose of eating them.

nsingh.rxpress@expressindia.com