Spanish nutritionists answer the question: should you change your diet for August’s heatwaves in Spain?

You may be tempted to reach for a glass of ice cold gazpacho in the sweltering heat of August, but do not fall for all the summer diet hype that is sweeping social media.

Spanish health experts warn residents to avoid unnecessary dietary changes, insisting on the importance of hydration.

“It’s not about prohibiting or restricting, but rather about listening to your body,” says nutritionist Vanesa Cortes, dismissing the annual surge of detox diets and summer ‘cleanses’ that plague the internet each year.

Instead of recommending radical dietary changes, experts recommend Spain’s tradition: local, fresh ingredients that have sustained Mediterranean cultures for centuries.

READ MORE Tom Cruise and Ana de Armas seen on romantic boat ride in Spain’s Menorca

Think watermelon and melon for natural sugars and hydration, raw vegetables like cucumber and tomatoes, and don’t skip protein-rich legumes just because it’s hot – cold chickpea and lentil salads are perfect summer grub.

Cortes, echoing Spanish cuisine’s timeless wisdom, suggests “We can think of how our grandmothers used to eat, simple dishes made with natural ingredients.”

Exercise doesn’t require a summer break, only a sensible schedule. Opt for workouts at dawn or dusk instead of the 11am-5pm window, when UV radiation is highest.

Spain’s nutritionists have a refreshingly simple message: Your body knows what you need, no matter the season.

Avoid a complete change in your diet just because the temperature has reached 40C.

READ MORE In Spain, the price of basic foods has risen by 38% or more since 2019.

What is your real priority? Water, water, water. 

As temperatures soar on the peninsula, you will naturally sweat more to regulate your temperature. This can lead to an increased loss of essential minerals and fluids.

Belen Silveira, an expert in eating disorders and weight issues, explained the situation to El Pais Summer heat is more intense than the rest of the year. This means that you need to pay extra attention to your hydration.

“If you do not drink enough water, on hot days your urine will become more concentrated. That can be an indication of dehydration,” warns the expert.

READ MOREValencia in Spain will experience even hotter temperatures this weekend.

If you aren’t running marathons under Seville’s 45C temperatures, then forget about those expensive electrolyte beverages. Cortes advises drinking plain water. You can add fresh fruits, cucumbers, or mint for some variety.

Over-65s should be given special attention as their thirst decreases with age. 

Silveira says, “They may not be thirsty, but they can easily become dehydrated.”

Silveira says: “Taking good care of yourself and enjoying yourself are compatible.” It’s about moderation. You can eat well all year long.”

Read more Health News at The Olive Press by clicking here.