Summertime is rough on me. My body does not respond well to day after day of 95 degree Florida weather. I feel sluggish, fatigued and for some reason, constantly hungry. I just want to lay on the couch and eat Cheez-its all day. Seriously. Because of this, I often put on a few pounds during the seemingly never ending summer. I vowed that this summer would be different. I still feel tired and hungry but am resisting my junk food binges by changing up my diet a little. I have added foods that have a very high water content. The strategy here is to eat less by feeling full quicker. It’s not rocket surgery. Here are 7 foods made of 90% water that will help fight those summertime pounds…

1. Grapefruit

A powerhouse for heart health, grapefruit contains vitamin C, folic acid, and potassium, along with pectin, a soluble fiber that may be a strong ally against atherosclerosis. Pink and red varieties also have vitamin A and lycopene, a phytochemical that protects arterial walls from oxidative damage. To get the juiciest specimens, select fruits heavy for their size and make sure to try them in this refreshing.
2. Lettuce
With a mere 60–70 calories per pound, lettuce is high on the list of diet-friendly foods. Romaine lettuce alone is a great source of B vitamins, folic acid, and manganese, which helps regulate blood sugar and is essential for proper immune system function. Choose other dark green or purple varieties such as green or red leaf for the most nutrients, and toss with a zesty homemade vinaigrette.

3. Cauliflower

Like other cruciferous veggies, cauliflower is full of cancer-fighting phytonutrients and is a great source of vitamin C and folate. Nibble on raw or lightly steamed florets to maximize cauliflower’s antioxidant power, or try this potassium-rich recipe for Cauliflower and Yukon Gold Soup.

4. Cabbage

Rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, cabbage is a great immune-booster. Enjoy it lightlysautéed in a stir-fry or paired with sweet-tart apples. Or, try this recipe for red cabbage and apple salad with ginger vinaigrette.

5. Broccoli

Did you know broccoli is a great source of fiber and calcium? Try this delicious recipe for Broccoli Salad With Sesame Dressing and Cashews

6. Radishes

These brightly colored vegetables are packed with potassium, folic acid, antioxidants, and sulfur compounds that aid in digestion. Don’t forget the leafy green tops, which contain six times the vitamin C and more calcium than the roots. Thinly slice and toss in a fresh green salad or julienne for coleslaw. Try this recipe for grilled chicken with sweet-and-sour cucumber-radish salad.

7. Spinach

Tender and flavorful, this leafy green is rich in iron, folic acid, and vitamin K. It also contains disease-fighting antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin C, as well as the phytochemical lutein, which protects eyes against age-related macular degeneration. Use as a substitute for lettuce in salad, lightly sauté with shredded carrot, sliced mushrooms, and garlic for a savory omelet filling, or try this simple Seasoned Spinach recipe for a quick and nutritious side dish.

Related Posts

• No Related Post

Written by Lea Barlow • 1 Comment