WITH temperatures soaring across the UK, Tesco has reported a surge of thirsty customers buying hydrating fruit.
The supermarket chain has reported a ten per cent increase in sales of berries, melons, grapes and other varieties as people scoff healthy snacks to help them cool off in the sun.
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But some of the best food and drinks for warm weather sustenance might surprise you.
Here, Laura Stott reveals the perfect menu to eat in the heat.
CURRY: Tucking into a spicy vindaloo can provide perfect nourishment in warm weather.
Many popular Asian dishes contain coconut milk, which aids electrolyte balance.
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Ingredients such as turmeric and ginger boost circulation, helping you cool. Coriander helps with heat tolerance, while chili fires up our cooling mechanisms.
CUP OF TEA: A hot brew when it’s boiling can be surprisingly refreshing and helps to keep you hydrated.
University of Cambridge boffins proved that – whether it’s builders’, Earl Grey or green tea – when a drink is warmer than the body, it activates heat receptors on your tongue which tell the body to sweat, cooling you.
ONIONS: Eating an onion has many heat-busting benefits. Cooked or raw, the root veggies contain sulphur compounds that encourage perspiration to help lower your body temperature.
They are also packed full of a cooling flavonoid called quercetin, which helps the body absorb hot-weather stresses.
And circulation- boosting benefits lower body temperature further. Each hydrating allium also consists of around 90 per cent water.
STEW: A hearty stew might sound like it belongs on a winter menu.
But whether you simmer meat, chicken or veggies, the fluids in your pot are great for hydration levels.
Seasonings like salt are ideal for balancing electrolyte levels, and mixed vegetables provide vital hot weather handy minerals such as magnesium and potassium.
To give it a summer twist, opt for a lighter stew with a broth base.
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TOMATO SOUP: A bowl of soup might make you feel warmer initially – but sweating means your body will quickly begin to cool down.
Any variety will boost your hydration, but this classic soup is a superb summer pick as tomatoes are 94 per cent water.
They are also high in antioxidant lycopene, which can help protect your skin from the sun. You can even enjoy it chilled, as a Spanish-style gazpacho.
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PINEAPPLE: This tropical treat is packed with powerful anti-inflammatory bromelain, known to help the body combat the effects of heat and inflammation.
It’s also handy for aiding digestion, if the warm weather has upset your tum. With 86 per cent water, pineapple keeps you hydrated and will regulate your body temperature, too.
Scoff in chilled slices or add to smoothies.
MINT: Fresh mint contains menthol, which activates cold receptors in the mouth to help you cool naturally – as well as tasting refreshing.
Plant a pot of peppermint or spearmint on the windowsill for garnishes or add a dried sprinkle from the freezer to dishes. It can also help with heat-induced headaches.
ICE CREAM: Perhaps not the most nutritious warm-weather food but licking a cone on a scorching day will still help cool you down temporarily as the frozen treat hits your tongue.
For longer- lasting benefits, a lighter fruit sorbet or lolly from the freezer will replenish more fluids. But both should raise a smile while it’s scorching.
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