Citrus Beverages for Summer Heat

Due to increasing climatic changes, days with temperatures above 30°C are becoming more frequent. In these times, it is extremely important to provide the body with an adequate amount of water. Water is essential for the proper functioning of all processes in the body. It also plays a role in thermoregulation, allowing us to maintain a relatively constant body temperature. In the summer, we sweat more to prevent the body from overheating, but we also lose a lot of water and minerals. This is a natural cooling process, but it can lead to dehydration if we do not ensure proper water and mineral supply. The body can be hydrated not only by drinking water but also by other beverages and water-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, or soups. Without physical activity, we lose about 1-1.5 liters of fluids per day, but during heatwaves, this value can increase significantly. Signs of dehydration include: headache, dizziness, increased body temperature, decreased appetite, less frequent urination, decreased saliva production, cognitive impairment, drowsiness, increased heart rate, and irritability. Although we usually only reach for water when we feel thirsty, it is important to remember that this is already a sign of dehydration. It is usually small, at around 2%, but it should not be underestimated as it can also cause discomfort and worsen easily. A loss of 7-8% of water can already lead to a negative heat stroke, so it is important to hydrate regularly.

A traditional lemonade is based on citrus fruits. Although the original version adds a large amount of sugar, the proposed instruction halves the amount. The sugar can also be converted into stevia or xylitol. Due to its sour taste, this lemonade is exceptionally refreshing. Ingredients (in 6 servings): - 6 lemons, - 1/2 mug of brown sugar, - 6 mugs of water. Method of preparation: 1. Pour water into a pot and heat it. Add sugar and stir until it dissolves. Let it cool. 2. Rub the lemons and squeeze the juice out of them. 3. Mix the juice with the water and the sugar and cool it well.

During the summertime, it is effortless to acquire succulent and freshly picked strawberries. They can also be employed in the preparation of lemonade, as they impart a beautiful hue and a mildly sweet flavor. Such a blend ensures a considerable quantity of vitamin C. Ingredients (for 12 servings): • 15 large strawberries, • 2 teaspoons of honey, • 8 lemons, • 7 glasses of water, • a glass of stevia. Preparation 1. Rinse the strawberries, remove the stem ends, and place them in a blender. Add a glass of water and honey and blend into a uniform mixture. 2. Remove the peel from the lemons and squeeze the juice. Mix the juice with the strawberry blend. 3. Combine the mixed fruit juices with water and stevia. 4. Chill the prepared mixture in the refrigerator for 2 hours.

Cucumber is a good addition to most summer dishes. It's especially good in lemonade because it's refreshing. Ingredients (in 12 servings): 1⁄2 cup of sugar, 3 cups of water, 4 cups of cucumber puree, 4 lemons. Preparation: 1. Blend cucumber in a blender to a smooth consistency. 2. Grate the lemon peel and squeeze the juice, then mix the juice with the cucumber. 3. Heat water in a pot and combine it with sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Then let it cool. 4. Combine all the ingredients and chill, or add ice cubes.