When the temperature rises above 30 °C, you want not only to hide in the shade but also to find foods that help you cope with the heat more easily. But can food really “cool down” the body?

Partially — yes. It’s important to consider not just the temperature of the food itself, but also how it affects the body’s internal thermoregulation processes.

Natural “coolers”

1. Mint
   Activates cold receptors on the mucous membranes, creating a lasting cooling sensation — even if the product is at room temperature.

2. Cucumbers
   Contain over 95% water. Quench thirst, are easy to digest, and work well in salads, smoothies, or simply with a splash of lemon juice.

3. Citrus fruits (orange, lime, grapefruit)
   Have a mild diuretic effect, promote sweating, and help the body “release heat” naturally.

4. Coconut water
   A natural isotonic drink. Restores electrolyte balance and gently refreshes.

5. Fermented dairy products (yogurt, kefir, ayran)
   Have a mild cooling effect, support digestion, and provide easily digestible protein.

Spicy foods: cooling through sweating

Spices like chili, ginger, and turmeric first cause a rush of heat, but then stimulate active sweating. This triggers the body’s natural cooling mechanism. However, this method doesn’t work for everyone — especially when the air is already hot, the effect may feel unpleasant.

Cold drinks: ice isn’t always the answer

A cool, unsweetened tea is often more effective than a scoop of ice cream.
Iced drinks do cool you down — but only briefly. They can also slow down digestion and give a false sense of cooling.

The main rule: listen to your body.
Some feel better with gazpacho or smoothies, others prefer room-temperature green tea. There’s no universal solution, but there are helpful guidelines.