9 Energy-Boosting Summer Foods

There’s a reason they call it the lazy days of summer…

It’s not just a saying. When the weather heats up, all that sweating causes the body to lose sodium, leading to hyponatremia. It’s not serious, but it can cause dizziness, headaches, and muscle cramps.

Sudden temperature changes can also lead to lethargy. Going from your airconditioned home or office into the baking sun causes a rapid increase in temperature, draining the body of energy reserves as it heats up.

Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to keep your energy levels up as temperatures rise.

We’ve also identified 9 foods that’ll help keep you going all season!

1. Goji berries– Pick up the dried version of these brightly colored berries at any supermarket for a convenient snack and an immediate energy boost. They’re chewy and satisfying, making them the perfect “nature’s candy.” They also go great in a refreshing summer smoothie, adding a hint of tartness to your everyday recipe.
2. Watermelon– This fruit is mostly water, and it’s incredibly refreshing. It’s also packed with electrolytes, magnesium, and potassium, which are vital for staying hydrated in the summer. Enjoy it on its own, as a star ingredient in a salad or as a chilled juice.
3. Cucumber – This fruit (yes, it’s a fruit!) is also known for its high liquid content. Add it to salads, enjoy with veggie dip, or put slices in your water glass. The subtly sweet flavor of cucumber goes with almost everything.
4. Sweet Potatoes – If you want a hearty snack that won’t slow you down, opt for sweet potatoes. Their high fiber and starch content give you energy without making you feel drowsy after having a full belly. They also prevent blood sugar spikes and can naturally prevent sunburn due to their carotenoid content. Enjoy them baked with your favorite toppings or slice them in rounds and fry or bake them in the oven to make sweet potato chips.
5. Citrus Fruits – Juicy fruits like oranges and grapefruits are loaded with water. Plus, their tart flavor is sure to wake you up! Enjoy a citrus fruit salad or a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice for a quick pick-me-up.
6. Leafy Greens– Are you sensing a salad theme yet? Leafy greens have lots of water, and they’re also high in nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and iron. Eating foods with lots of water naturally lowers the body’s temperature, so get plenty of leafy greens by adding them to salads, smoothies, or green juices.
7. Avocados – This food is perfect year-round, but it’s especially helpful in summer because the healthy fats give you a steady energy source to fuel all of your activities. You can add avocado to just about anything, including salads, sandwiches, and omelets. Or, make your own guacamole and dip your handmade sweet potato chips in it!
8. Tomatoes – Another fruit with high water content, tomatoes also serve as a natural sunscreen.
9. Trail Mix – If you’re on the go, then there’s no better snack than trail mix. Make your own by adding cashews, pecans, and almonds with a moderate amount of dried fruits and seeds like cherries, raisins, pumpkin seeds. Get creative and add your favorites! The high protein and fiber content in nuts, fruit, and seeds keep you going. Grab a handful on your way out the door or bring a baggie with you for any time snacking.

What’s your favorite go-to snack during the summer? Let us know in the comments!