06/04/2019
With summer heat comes the challenge of staying hydrated. We all know that drinking water will help prevent dehydration, but we are lucky to have some summer foods that also will be beneficial.
Let’s talk melons.The easiest to find are watermelons, honeydews and cantaloupes. When you purchase your melons, it is important to wash the outside skin before placing them on your counter or in your refrigerator as they lay on the ground when they grow. While they are washed several times at the farms after being picked, it is a good habit to wash the skins for yourself when you bring them home from the store.
Made up of about 90% water, melons are packed full of electrolytes including potassium, antioxidants (substances that can prevent or delay cell damage), vitamins and fiber. We all know that these are key words in healthy eating. Most melons are only about 45-60 calories per cup diced, and while they do have carbohydrates (sugar), you can also mix them with other fruits like berries which are lower in sugar if this is something you are monitoring. Consider adding them to a smoothie for their natural sweetness or my favorite is to add some diced melons to your green salad for a change of pace that also results in an appetizing and summery look and taste.
