What to Eat in Summer: During *Nautapa*—nine days of intense heat—summer temperatures reach their absolute peak. The scorching sun, humidity, and continuously rising temperatures can quickly leave the body feeling exhausted. In such weather, many people find that they do not feel hungry as often; they lose the desire to eat heavy meals and frequently experience a sensation of fullness or bloating. According to health experts, the body's metabolism tends to slow down slightly during the summer months, which can lead to a reduced appetite.

However, this does not mean that one should skip meals entirely. The body still requires proper nutrition and hydration during this season. Consuming excessive amounts of oily, spicy, or heavy foods can exacerbate issues such as lethargy, gas, dehydration, and fatigue. In this context, light, cooling, and easily digestible summer meals play a crucial role in providing the body with the necessary energy.

In today's article, we will share with you exactly which light summer meals you should consume during the scorching heat of *Nautapa* to help keep your body cool, maintain your appetite, and ensure you feel active throughout the day. If you find that your appetite diminishes during the summer months, these simple and healthy options will prove to be incredibly beneficial for you.

Why Do We Not Feel Hungry as Often During Summer?

When the body's internal temperature rises during the summer, the digestive process may slow down slightly. Due to the intense heat and increased perspiration, the body expends more energy in the effort to digest heavy meals. It is for this very reason that one begins to experience a reduced appetite.

5 Best Light Summer Meals

**Curd Rice (Dahi-Chawal)**

*   Provides a cooling effect to the stomach.

*   Easily digestible.

*   It is also simple to prepare, meaning you won't have to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen during the summer heat. You can easily cook some rice and enjoy it paired with either sweet or savory curd (yogurt).

**Moong Dal Khichdi**

*   Light and nutritious.

*   Helps prevent feelings of weakness or fatigue.

*   Khichdi can easily be placed at the very top of the list when it comes to light and nutritious meals. Even if you do not feel particularly hungry, consuming *Moong Dal Khichdi* can leave you feeling refreshed and energized. It can be prepared in just minutes using minimal ingredients.

**Fruit Salad**

Keeps the body hydrated.

Rich in vitamins.

If you don't feel like eating a full meal, lack an appetite, or are feeling overwhelmed by the heat, opt for fruits instead. Fruits provide nourishment, soothe the stomach, and keep the body hydrated.

**Buttermilk and Mint**

Provides relief from the summer heat.

Supports digestion.

Even if you don't feel hungry, consume a drink made with buttermilk or mint. It offers relief from the heat, soothes the stomach, and improves digestion.

**Oats or Dalia (Broken Wheat Porridge)**

A light yet energizing meal.

Keeps you feeling full for a long time.

Oats or Dalia are quick and easy to prepare. Consuming them keeps your stomach full, provides energy, and offers relief from the heat. You can enjoy Dalia as a savory *Khichdi*, soaked overnight, or as a sweet porridge with milk.

**Are Yogurt and Buttermilk Beneficial in Summer?**

Yogurt and buttermilk help keep the body cool during the summer months. Consuming them offers several benefits, such as:

They keep the stomach cool.

They help prevent dehydration.

They can improve digestion.

Drinking buttermilk mixed with roasted cumin seeds and mint is considered even more beneficial.

**Which Fruits Should You Eat More of During Summer?**

Watermelon

Muskmelon

Cucumber

Mango (in moderation)

Papaya

These fruits have a high water content, which helps keep the body hydrated.

**What Should You Avoid During Summer?**

Excessive fried and greasy foods

Highly spicy foods

Excessive caffeine

Cold drinks/sodas

Going without food (on an empty stomach) for long periods

These factors can increase body heat and lead to fatigue.

PC Social Media