As the scorching summer months approach, it’s essential to be mindful of the spices we consume in our diet. While spices play a crucial role in preventing inflammation and boosting immunity, not all of them are suitable for the warmer weather. Some spices can disrupt the optimal functioning of the gut, leading to discomfort and digestive issues. Therefore, it’s important to know which spices to include and which ones to avoid during the hot summer months.
Summer-Friendly Spices:
1. Cumin: Cumin is a summer-friendly spice that aids digestion and helps cool the body. It is commonly used in various Indian dishes and is known for its soothing properties on the stomach. Including cumin in your diet can help alleviate digestive discomfort and promote overall gut health during the summer.
2. Mint: Mint is another cooling spice that is perfect for the summer season. It has a refreshing flavor and can help soothe the stomach, reduce acidity, and alleviate indigestion. Adding fresh mint leaves to salads, beverages, or yogurt can provide relief from the heat and promote digestion.
3. Coriander: Coriander is widely used in Indian cooking and is known for its cooling properties. It can help regulate body temperature, improve digestion, and alleviate stomach issues such as bloating and gas. Including coriander powder or fresh coriander leaves in your meals can enhance flavor and promote gut health during the summer.
4. Fennel: Fennel seeds are commonly consumed after meals to aid digestion and freshen breath. They have a cooling effect on the body and can help alleviate digestive discomfort, bloating, and gas. Chewing on a handful of fennel seeds after meals can promote digestion and prevent stomach issues during the summer.
5. Cardamom: Cardamom is a versatile spice that adds a unique flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. It has cooling properties and can help alleviate digestive issues such as acidity, bloating, and indigestion. Adding cardamom powder to beverages like lassi or herbal teas can aid digestion and promote gut health during the summer.
Spices to Avoid in Summer:
1. Red Chili Powder: Consuming excessive amounts of red chili powder during the summer can lead to a burning sensation in the stomach, throat, and chest. It can raise body temperature significantly, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature and increasing the risk of heat stroke.
2. Garlic: While garlic has numerous health benefits, including aiding weight loss and boosting metabolism, consuming excessive amounts of garlic during the summer can raise body temperature and cause discomfort. It can also lead to issues such as bad breath, stomach acidity, and even bleeding.
3. Ginger: Ginger is known for its warming properties, which can be beneficial during the winter months but may not be suitable for the summer. Consuming excessive amounts of ginger can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea and stomach discomfort, particularly in hot weather.
4. Cloves: Cloves contain eugenol, a compound that is extremely hot and can raise body temperature. Consuming cloves in excess during hot climates can exacerbate bleeding problems and aggravate Pitta (hot) body types. It’s best to use cloves sparingly during the summer months.
5. Asafoetida: Asafoetida, also known as hing, is commonly used in Indian cooking to enhance flavor and aid digestion. However, individuals who are Pitta (fire) dosha dominants or suffer from inflammations of the blood should use this spice with caution in the warmer months, as it can exacerbate heat-related issues.
In conclusion, while spices are an integral part of Indian cuisine, it’s important to choose wisely during the summer months to avoid digestive discomfort and maintain overall health. By making mindful choices about our spices, we can enjoy flavorful meals without compromising our well-being during the hot summer months.
