Basics: Summertime Kitchen

Cilantro...your best friend for Summer health

(photo from nadyala.org)

 

I don't want to jinx it, but maybe, just maybe, we San Franciscans get to see a bit of summer after a looong spring. Keep these tips handy on the summer-like days and you'll remain cool-headed. :) 

Please keep in mind that this list is not exclusive; every body/mind is made up of both summer, spring & winter qualities. We simply want to favor the foods/spices listed below to prevent any overheating of the  mind/body (i.e. rashes, inflammation, acne, critical mind, sharp tongue). Keeping our summer-qualities in check allows us to be wisely active and assertive, organized as we enter fall (back to school) and compassionate friends/companions/coworkers. 

(derived from lifespa.com & fran's house of ayurveda)

• Eat more foods that are Sweet, Bitter, Astringent / Cold, Heavy: such as salads, smoothies, fresh fruit.
• Eat less foods that are Pungent (Spicy), Sour, Salty / Hot, Light, Dry: such as spicy foods, hot beverages. 
• Fruits: Favor all fresh ripe berries, melons, apples, apricots, grapes, peaches, pears, pomegranates and ripe plums. 
• Vegetables: Favor asparagus, bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, celery, cilantro, leafy greens, seaweed, snow peas, and summer squash. 
• Drinks: Sip cool or room temperature water with cucumber slices or drink coconut water to keep cool and hydrated. 
• Teas: Drink herbal teas such as mint, hibiscus, dandelion and chicory.
• Spices: Enjoy coriander, fennel, cumin, dill, mint, & turmeric in your cooking.