Summer Survival Guide: Vegetables to Avoid for a Cooler, Healthier Season

As temperatures soar, staying cool and hydrated becomes a priority. While vegetables are generally packed with nutrients, some can generate heat in the body or cause digestive discomfort, making them less ideal for the summer months. Here’s a guide to vegetables you might want to avoid or consume in moderation during the hot season:  

 

1. Brinjal (Eggplant): Known to produce internal heat, brinjal can aggravate conditions like skin rashes or acidity. It’s best to limit its consumption during peak summer.  

 

2. Radish: While great for digestion in winter, radish’s pungent and warming properties can lead to bloating and discomfort in summer. Opt for cooked forms if you must include it.  

 

3. Garlic and Onions (in excess): Though raw onions have cooling properties, excessive consumption of garlic or cooked onions can increase body heat and acidity.  

 

4. Mustard Greens: These are warming in nature and better suited for colder climates. Their spicy taste may irritate digestion during hot months.  

 

5. Spinach (in large amounts): Despite its nutritional value, overconsumption of spinach can cause bloating and gas due to its high oxalate content.  

 

6. Beetroot: While hydrating, beetroot has warming tendencies that can intensify during summer, potentially causing heat boils or skin breakouts.  

 

7. Turnip: High in starch and warmth, turnips are better suited for winter diets.  

 

8. Cruciferous Vegetables (like cabbage and Brussels sprouts): These can cause bloating and digestive discomfort in some individuals during excessive heat.  

 

9. Hot Peppers: Spicy peppers like jalapenos or habaneros can increase body heat and may not be the best choice during summer heatwaves.  

 

By making mindful dietary choices and opting for lighter, hydrating vegetables like cucumbers, zucchini, and summer squash, you can support your body’s natural cooling mechanisms and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable summer.  

 

Sources: NDTV Doctor, Times of India, OnlyMyHealth