Chill Out This Summer
Summer is here and we all know it’s far too short, so time to get outside and take advantage of the warm weather and our favorite outdoor activities! Whether you enjoy wheeling, hiking, biking, walking, water-skiing, gardening, sailing, canoeing or kayaking you’ll want to cool off and quench that thirst afterwards with something refreshing right? Well before heading to the fridge and reaching for the calorie laden ice cream or artificially flavoured sport drink-hold on! I’ve got something that’s not only refreshing, but delicious and good for you. As much as we love these summer sports and outdoor hobbies, for many of us with mobility impairments, these activities can put extra strain on our joints causing swelling and pain.
Two of the best foods that will help you chill out this summer and maintain your joint integrity are pineapple and cucumber.
Yes, this sweet tropical fruit is a crunchy, low calorie, fibrous vegetable that has a number joint-health benefits. To start, pineapple is a natural anti-inflammatory. It contains a mixture of enzymes called bromelain, which can help reduce any swelling and pain you may experience by going that extra mile.
Cucumber contains a substance called silica, which is one of the most important minerals for our joints because it helps build the cartilage and connective tissue that make these vital body structures. Furthermore, the high water content of cucumber helps to lubricate our joints, while its vitamin C and caffeic acid also help to reduce swelling.
So now you know all about these two cool foods, what’s the best way to enjoy them? In this Mouth Watering Pineapple-Cucumber Gazpacho! Okay stop. I know what you’re thinking-cold soup is disgusting. Trust me, this recipe is so delicious that I make huge batches and eat it for breakfast, lunch, snacks and to cool down after a work-out. Try it-you’ll like it and just think how much it’ll enhance your performance and fun this summer!
Enjoy!
