In summer, indigestion can easily occur, so a light and less-greasy diet is strongly recommended. It is the perfect season to introduce some cool, yin foods into your diet. Chinese nutrition classifies food according to its energetic qualities of temperature, taste, and ability to moisten and strengthen the body. Food with cool and cold properties can clear heat, reduce toxins, and generate body fluids.

In general, cooling foods tend towards the green end of the spectrum — lettuce, cucumbers, and watercress are some of the coolest. Few vegetables are warming. Fish and seafood are also cooling, while most meats are warming.

The idea is to eat your normal diet, but lean a little more toward the foods on the list. Here are some suggestions to keep you cool and balanced all summer long.

These fruits and vegetables will help your body adjust its temperature and protect you during the long, hot summer days:

  • Watermelon
  • Apricot
  • Cucumber
  • Cantaloupe
  • Lemon
  • Peach
  • Orange

 

  • Corn
  • White mushroom
  • Snow peas
  • Spinach
  • Summer squash
  • Asparagus
  • Watercress
  • Sprouts
  • Seaweed
  • Bamboo
  • Mung beans
  • Bok choy
  • Cilantro
  • Broccoli
  • Mint
  • Dill
  • Chinese cabbage