Summer advice from Dietitian Akyılmaz: Watermelon, cucumber, and tomatoes

Summer vegetables and fruits are considered as excellent sources to meet the body’s needs for vitamins and minerals. Dietitian Gülşah Akyılmaz recommends choosing foods with high water content such as watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, and lettuce. Salads, fresh fruit plates, and light snacks should be the favorites during summer.
Emphasizing the importance of increasing water consumption to compensate for the fluid lost through sweating in hot weather, Gülşah Akyılmaz from Özel Amasya Kolmed Hospital advises aiming to drink at least 2-2.5 liters of water per day. She suggests making water consumption more appealing by adding lemon, mint, or fruit slices to it. Moreover, consuming foods with high water content also helps maintain hydration levels.
Gülşah Akyılmaz, working at Özel Amasya Kolmed Hospital, highlights that outdoor activities in summer months are beneficial for physical health. She states that engaging in activities such as walking, running, cycling, or swimming in the early morning or evening coolness can help stay fit. Regular exercise not only aids in weight control but also boosts energy levels.
Acknowledging that dietary habits may get disrupted during vacation periods, Akyılmaz points out that this does not mean abandoning healthy eating habits altogether. She suggests opting for healthier choices at hotel buffets and planning meals in a balanced way. During holidays, it is important to ensure adequate water intake and to stay active. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can sometimes be challenging. Akyılmaz advises setting small goals and rewarding oneself upon achieving them to keep motivation high. Remember, sustainable changes take time. Be patient and progress with small steps.