How fruit helps in the heat

The sun’s getting brighter and the temperature’s getting hotter; yes its, true – Summer time is finally here! Well… technically it doesn’t start until June 21^st but after the heat we had last week, I think the rules need to change.

As much as it’s fun to embrace the heat, may it be by going on a picnic, going for a swim, playing on the beach or sunbathing– it’s important to stay protected against the sun. Sunlight contains Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can be harmful to the skin. It can cause sunburns, premature aging and, worst case scenario, cancer. The main way to do stay protected from the sun is by using a good sunscreen. Or is it Suncream?... Uh, you get the idea…

On top of Sunscreen, there are other ways to keep yourself protected, and one of those is by eating fruit! Fruits can help in several ways:

Firstly, Fruits can have a very high-water content. It’s important to stay hydrated during the heat as, when you sweat, you lose a lot of water. For example, a watermelon is about 92% water, which explains why it’s so refreshing to eat in the summer. Additionally, Watermelons contain an anti-oxidant called “Lycopene”, which protects against sunburn and skin cancer.

You wouldn’t think it, but Tomatoes are a pretty good fruit to have on your plate. They contain Lycopene, like watermelons, and also Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a mineral that helps your skin stay young and healthy.

Cantaloupe is another fruit that’s good to have in the summer. It contains Beta-carotene, a pigment that can give fruits/vegetables their orange, yellow and red colours. On-top of this, it’s another antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

Electrolytes are a substance that helps regulate the level of fluids in your body, keeping them balanced. When it’s hot you can lose these electrolytes through your sweat, so it’s important to replenish them. Lots of fruit can provide a good source of electrolytes, such as Bananas, Oranges and Watermelons.

And there you have it folk! Some reasons how Fruit protect you against the heat! Now remember that the best thing to wear is Sunscream and to stay hydrated! Fruits however, are a delicious alternative to help suppliment the battle against the heat.