(Image source from: Canva.com)

Have you ever woken up on a sweltering summer morning feeling utterly parched? The sun is blazing, and the intensity of its rays pouring in through the window is overwhelming. Even before you rise, you might feel completely wiped out and lacking energy. To kickstart your day positively, it's beneficial to nourish your body with food that calms your stomach. Edwina Raj, a clinical nutritionist and dietitian at Aster CMI Hospital, advises, “Heavy, greasy breakfasts can lead to bloating, lethargy, and digestive discomfort." Therefore, it's best to choose lighter, more soothing meals to maintain your vitality and refreshment.

A coconut water smoothie can be incredibly revitalizing. Combine fresh coconut water with banana, mint leaves, and several ice cubes in a blender for a refreshing, hydrating treat. Preparing a smoothie at home is recommended over indulging in sugary carbonated drinks. Raj notes that “Coconut water is rich in electrolytes, while bananas offer a mild source of fiber and natural sweetness."

For those who enjoy meal prep, chia seeds paired with fruits are a delightful option. Not only is this combination convenient, but it also offers numerous health advantages. The nutritionist recommends soaking chia seeds overnight in either almond or coconut milk and garnishing with seasonal fruits like berries, kiwi, or papaya. She explains, “Chia seeds are known for their cooling effects and are gentle on the digestive tract, providing a light yet satisfying start to your day."

During the summer, prepare oats with water, then mix them with chilled buttermilk. Adding a sprinkle of salt or roasted cumin for flavor is a great tip from Raj. She states, “Oats are light and fibrous, while buttermilk helps soothe the stomach and aids digestion."

Consider preparing cucumber raita as part of your breakfast selection. Combine finely diced cucumber with plain yogurt and season with a touch of salt and cumin powder, as Raj suggests. Yogurt is a probiotic-rich food that promotes gut health, and cucumber introduces an additional cooling element.

Raj also recommends blending fresh aloe vera gel with a little water and a teaspoon of honey. This mixture should be consumed on an empty stomach or enjoyed with a light breakfast. Aloe vera is well-known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties that benefit the digestive system.

Soft, steamed idlis served with fresh coconut chutney create an ideal, light breakfast, according to Raj. “The fermented idlis facilitate digestion, while coconut helps in alleviating internal heat and inflammation," she explains. Including papaya in your meals offers numerous advantages, so why not make a papaya salad? “Diced, ripe papaya topped with a splash of fresh lime juice is a great choice," suggests Raj. She adds, “Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which assists in protein breakdown and alleviates stomach discomfort, making it an excellent option for hot summer mornings."