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As a good share of the United States has been baking under an oppressive heat wave for the month of July, people are looking for ways to stay healthy and safe as the mercury rises. The common theme of a person must stay hydrated is a no-brainer, but what kinds of foods should we be eating as the temperature exceeds 100 degrees in so many locations.

One of the biggest tips dieticians give to those pursuing health & fitness is to eat more often, but make sure you’re eating light. Ironically, that sounds like a perfect recipe for losing weight. The mere act of physical exertion during a sunny day with a heat index approaching 115, means you need to replace the water you are losing when you are sweating.

Food tips for health & wellness:
•    Add fruits to your diet -  A great way to add a light food to your diet that produces lots of water is to eat more fruits. Fruits can be nearly all water, won’t sit in your stomach all afternoon, and help with the hydration process.

•    Drinks – It’s always hard to tell what sport or energy drinks to stay away from. Here is a great rule of thumb! Don’t consume drinks that contain artificial colors and flavors and avoid drinks that have caffeine.

•    Snacks – Eat more peanuts…what? Salted Peanuts actually help the body hold onto the water instead of it going right through you. Remember, your body is losing salt through sweat, and the salt will need to be replaced. Snacks like watermelon and cucumbers can also be great additions to your everyday beat the heat plans.