Prone to Heat Sensitivity? These 5 Foods Can Help You Cool Down

It’s a common topic of conversation: the sweltering heat. Yet, you find yourself sweating profusely, flushed, and uncomfortably hot, while others appear to manage the summer warmth with ease. Why does it seem like you’re the only one struggling to cope with the high temperatures?

Some individuals — maybe you included — are prone to a greater level of heat sensitivity or heat intolerance for a variety of factors. Heat intolerance may stem from a certain health condition, such as diabetes or a thyroid condition, or it might be a side effect of certain medications, such as those used for mental health concerns. In some cases, you may be less able to tolerate the heat due to your age, or it could be one of the many side effects of not being physically fit.

Understanding that unmanaged heat sensitivity can leave you feeling less than optimal, it’s essential to find practical solutions. If common avoidance strategies like staying away from alcohol during hot spells or adjusting medications aren’t options for you, consider tweaking your diet. Incorporating these five foods into your summer diet allows you to stay cooler and more comfortable as the temperature climbs.

1. Water–Rich Fruits

You likely know the importance of staying hydrated. Not only does remaining properly hydrated help your body cool down while it’s hot, but staying hydrated can also help you maintain peak performance at work. That said, if you’re dealing with heat sensitivity, that doesn’t mean you have to down more and more glasses of water throughout the day. You can get a large part of your daily water intake through foods (and, according to the American Heart Association, at least 19% of U.S. adults’ water intake typically comes from water-rich foods).

Water-rich fruits to add into your diet this summer include watermelon, strawberries, and cucumbers (yes, cucumbers are technically fruit). These types of foods not only maximize your moisture balance in the heat but also offer a refreshing taste and are easy on the digestive system. Enjoy these hydrating fruits as snacks, toss them into salads, or blend them into smoothies for a cool summer treat.

2. Leafy Greens

Thanks to their high water content, leafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce increase water intake in your meals. These greens are excellent for keeping you hydrated and provide a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Toss them into a salad, use them in wraps or sandwiches, or serve them as a side with a light summer dish.

3. Spicy Foods

It may sound entirely counterintuitive, but did you know spicy foods can help you cool down?

According to The Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, when you eat spicy foods — or even just very hot foods like soup — when it’s already hot out, you’re more likely to perspire. This, in turn, helps your body to cool down. Spicy foods come with other benefits for your personal well-being as well; according to Piedmont Healthcare, spicy foods can increase your metabolism by up to 5%, encourage your body to produce depression-fighting endorphins, reduce bad cholesterol, and prevent cancer.

During the warmer months, embrace spicy ingredients such as jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes. You can easily incorporate them into your existing recipes or seek out naturally warm dishes, like soups, to amplify their heat-dissipating effects.

4. Probiotic–Rich Foods

Incorporate probiotic-rich foods into your diet to reap various health advantages. These foods bolster gut health, enhance digestion, boost immunity, and can even assist with weight management. They’re also known for their potential to alleviate hot flashes. Try adding snacks or beverages like Greek yogurt, kefir, or kombucha to your diet and experience the positive impacts they may offer.

5. Herbal Teas

Switch up your hydration routine from the usual plain water by trying a chilled herbal tea. Serve it over ice with a slice of lemon or your choice of fruit for a refreshing twist. This provides a soothing and calming beverage option and keeps you hydrated during the hot summer months.

But which tea should you choose?

Herbs can be split into two categories, according to Healthline: refrigerants, which actively work to cool the body, and diaphoretics, which encourage perspiration, and which ultimately also cool the body. Refrigerant herbs to add to your teas include lemongrass, chrysanthemum, lemon balm, lavender, spearmint, peppermint, and chamomile. Diaphoretics include catnip and elderflower. Some herbs uniquely fit into both categories, such as peppermint, lemon balm, and chamomile.

The Bottom Line

If you’re prone to heat sensitivity, finding ways to cool down is essential for your comfort and health. This summer, let your diet do the cooling with these five refreshing foods that promise to help you beat the heat and stay energized.

Looking for more help to optimize your health this summer and perform at your peak? Sign up for a complimentary coaching call with an Arootah Health Coach to learn how we can support you on your wellness journey!