ANTIPASTS

Six tips for eating more in the summer if you get hungry

The lack or reduction of appetite during the summer months is a phenomenon that we have all experienced at least once in our lives, and it hides within itself chemical-biological reasons.

In fact, lack of appetite originates from dehydration. Dehydration due to mugginess and heat leads to an increase in the concentration of certain substances (proteins, trace elements and minerals) within the bloodstream, which in turn promotes a sense of satiety.

This can cause a real vicious cycle from which it is difficult to escape. However, there are useful techniques, strategies, and tips for getting back to eating smoothly even when summer and heat give no respite.

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Lack of appetite in summer? These six tips can help
The lack or reduction of appetite during the summer months is a phenomenon that we have all experienced at least once in our lives, and it hides within itself chemical-biological reasons. In fact, lack of appetite originates from dehydration. Dehydration due to mugginess and heat leads to an increase in the concentration of certain substances (proteins, trace elements and minerals) within the bloodstream, which in turn promotes a sense of satiety. This can cause a real vicious cycle from which it is difficult to escape. However, there are useful techniques, strategies, and tips for getting back to eating smoothly even when summer and heat give no respite.
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Drinking plenty of water is the most important thing
The most basic advice, the one that everyone knows, yet many adults practically forget to drink throughout the day, overwhelmed by daily commitments. For an adult, the minimum amount of water to drink (if not playing sports), ranges from 1.5 to 2 liters per day. Special attention should be paid to children and the elderly, but not because they are weaker, but because they physically perceive the thirst stimulus less.
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Prefer meat to fish
When it is very hot, it would be best to decrease intake of red meat and salt-rich sausages such as ham, mortadella, coppa, and salami. Perfection would be to serve a lot of fish, often boiled, and served cold for example in salads. Eggs are also an excellent food to be eaten cold.
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The appearance of food is important
The eye wants its share, especially when it is very hot and the appetite is not huge. "Eye candy" is a great way to eat even at times when, from the mugginess, it is hard even to breathe. Colorful, well-plated foods, fresh-looking and inviting fruits and vegetables are great ways to try to eat more, and in a healthy way.
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Never forget to drink milk
Speaking of dairy products, in summer, foods such as fresh cheeses should be chosen (first salt is a good example) and white yogurt, which is also an excellent source of calcium and can be included in all five meals of the day. In addition, it also helps to counteract lack of appetite to eat milk.
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Eat less, but more often
The recommendation of nutritionists is to add, to the three main meals, at least two snacks throughout the day, one mid-morning and one mid-afternoon. This is not translated, however, as more calories taken in total, but only as a more equal distribution over the course of the 16 waking hours (on average). So, perhaps, have a smaller lunch and postpone dinner time slightly, so as to satiate yourself but without getting too full.
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Eating light and fresh foods
In summer, cold dishes not only help people feel the heat less, but also stimulate the appetite. For example, cold meats such as ham (cooked), but also bresaola, and fresh cheeses are fine, as are pasta and rice also served cold, or at most at room temperature. As they are rich in water and have a fair share of calories, cold soups can be consumed at this time of year, as well as dishes made with legumes.
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