Foods to eat and avoid in June as per Ayurveda

Time of India

2 days ago

Summer hits hard in June, and your body feels it first. With higher temperatures and longer days, your system starts to adjust. In Ayurveda, this is when pitta dosha or the fire element becomes stronger.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
So if you feel more tired, moody, or sensitive to food, it's not just in your head. The best way to stay balanced is by eating cooling and calming foods that help your digestion and let your body release extra heat. Here's what you should eat more of and what you should avoid for now.
Foods that help you stay cool
This is the season to enjoy foods that cool you down, feel light, and keep you fresh. You don't need anything special, just what nature is already giving you.
Cucumber and pineapple are perfect summer choices. They're water-rich, easy to digest, and naturally cooling. Eating them regularly can help prevent dehydration and keep your energy steady.
Berries offer a burst of antioxidants without the heaviness. They also support skin health and boost immunity. Add a few to your morning bowl or blend into a cooling smoothie.
Honeydew melon and cherries help flush out toxins and support your skin during the hot months.
Their natural sweetness also makes them a refreshing and healthy treat to enjoy anytime.
Your liver also works harder in summer, so supporting it with gentle detox foods like cherries and artichokes can make a big difference. These help reduce internal heat and prevent that mid-summer fatigue or dullness.
Don't forget herbs. Fresh mint, basil, and coriander have cooling properties that balance pitta and add a refreshing twist to any meal.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Toss them into raita, chutneys, or even summer salads. If you're using greens like kale, lightly cook or steam them—raw might be too much for sensitive summer tummies.
What to avoid in the summer heat
Heavy, greasy, or spicy foods are best left for cooler seasons. In June, they tend to overwhelm the digestive system and increase internal heat. Eating them can leave you feeling sluggish and uncomfortable in the heat.
Fried snacks, cheesy gravies, and heavy carbs feel good in the moment but lead to bloating, sluggishness, and acidity later.
Instead, opt for small amounts of cooling fats like coconut oil or avocado.
Strong spices like garlic, onion, red chilli, and mustard seeds can provoke pitta and result in skin irritation or mood swings. Go lighter with flavour by using fennel, cardamom, or fresh coriander instead.
Also, be mindful of fermented and overly sour foods. Pickles, vinegar-heavy dressings, and sour curd can be too heating and may spoil faster in the hot weather.
These can also ferment quickly in the stomach, leading to discomfort or imbalance.
Simple shifts that make a difference
You don't need to change everything, just make a few thoughtful swaps. Start your day with warm or room-temperature lemon water to gently open your system and support detox. Replace spicy chutneys with mint or coconut-based ones that cool you down instead of heating you up. Keep your meals light, fresh, and seasonal.
Ayurveda is all about tuning into what your body truly needs. In June, it is asking for ease, hydration, and balance. Listen closely and you will not only feel better, you will glow from the inside out.
How to eat healthy in winters, as per Ayurveda