These days, *Nautapa* is the talk of the town everywhere. Several states across the country are experiencing scorching heat, leaving people in a state of distress. The onslaught of heatwaves and the sun's blistering rays are making it extremely difficult for people to step out of their homes. To make matters worse, the intense fury of *Nautapa* is set to begin on May 25th. *Nautapa* lasts for a full nine days—specifically from May 25th to June 2nd. During this period, the sun is expected to scorch the Earth with fiery intensity. These entire nine days will be marked by extreme heat, as mercury levels could soar to between 50 and 55 degrees Celsius.

Consequently, it is essential to exercise special caution during this time. Avoid stepping out of the house between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Do not venture outdoors unless it is necessary. Ensure you take every possible protective measure. Additionally, during these days, consume foods that have a cooling effect on the body. In particular, make sure to consume plenty of green vegetables, fruits, and fluids. Here, we highlight a few vegetables known for their ability to keep the body cool.

**Eat These Vegetables During *Nautapa* to Keep Your Body Cool**
– During *Nautapa*, the sun moves significantly closer to the Earth, causing the heat to intensify to extreme levels. This phenomenon occurs every year during the month of *Jyeshtha* (late spring/early summer). As a result, people's health can be adversely affected, and the risk of heatstroke increases significantly. It is crucial to pay close attention to your diet during this time. Never leave the house on an empty stomach. Make it a point to include vegetables with cooling properties in your daily meals.

**Bottle Gourd (*Lauki*)** – During *Nautapa*—which runs from May 25th to June 2nd—temperatures rise drastically. This, in turn, causes the body's internal temperature to rise as well. Consequently, venturing outdoors can significantly heighten the risk of dehydration and heatstroke. Therefore, it is highly recommended to consume Bottle Gourd (*Lauki*) during the summer season. It helps keep the body cool from the inside out. Bottle Gourd has a high water content, which helps keep the body hydrated and provides a soothing, cooling effect to the stomach. 

**Cucumber & Kakri:** Be sure to consume water-rich cucumbers and *kakri* (long cucumbers) every day. They possess a cooling nature. Eating cucumbers prevents dehydration and helps maintain the body's temperature balance. They are also effective in protecting against heatstroke.

**Pumpkin:** Pumpkin is a light and easily digestible vegetable. With its naturally cooling properties, pumpkin can be prepared and consumed in various ways. Eating it helps keep the body temperature normal and provides a soothing, cooling effect to the stomach.

**Pointed Gourd (*Parwal*):** Did you know that *parwal* (pointed gourd) also has a cooling nature? It improves digestion and helps keep the body cool. Consuming it during the summer months helps maintain energy levels in the body.

**Ridge Gourd (*Turai*):** Rich in water and fiber, ridge gourd is an extremely nutritious and healthy vegetable. Consume ridge gourd to provide a cooling effect to your body; it is highly beneficial for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

**Round Gourd (*Tinda*):** *Tinda* (round gourd) is considered an exceptionally beneficial vegetable for the summer season. Eating it makes the body feel lighter and provides a sense of coolness. As it is easily digestible, make sure to include this vegetable in your diet during *Nautapa* (the nine hottest days of summer) to significantly protect yourself from heatstroke and the adverse effects of the heat.

**Bitter Gourd (*Karela*):** Despite its bitter taste, bitter gourd helps in detoxifying the body. Consuming it helps reduce body heat and keeps blood sugar levels under control.

**Tips to Protect Yourself from Heatstroke:**
*   Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
*   Consume coconut water, buttermilk (*chaach*), and lemon water.
*   Avoid eating excessively spicy and deep-fried foods during *Nautapa*.
*   Strictly avoid stepping out of the house into the sun between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
*   During this period, wear loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing.

**What Do Experts Say?**
According to health experts, during the summer season, one should drink plenty of water and other fluids such as coconut water, buttermilk, *Lassi*, *Sattu* sherbet, *Shikanji*, and lemon water. Additionally, opt for light meals. Consume vegetables with a cooling effect. Incorporate fruits into your diet that provide a cooling sensation to the body. This will protect you from heatstroke and dehydration. With a proper diet and adequate water intake, the effects of the *Nautapa* can be significantly mitigated.

PC Social Media