Summer is finally here and it is time to enjoy all this season has to offer. Along with the warm weather, the beautiful Canadian lakes and the vacations we take – summer is also full of fresh foods that are filled to the brim with nutrition and goodness. Here are some of my favorite summertime foods and beverages.

Watermelon – Watermelon is truly a hydration hero on a hot summer’s day. Watermelon also contains lycopene, which has powerful anti-cancer effects and also helps to protect the skin against sun damage.  Try a watermelon feta salad with greens!

Cold/iced brewed coffee – Iced brewed coffee is perfect for the summertime and may offer health benefits that hot coffee does not. According to one study, cold-brewed coffee is 67 percent less acidic vs. hot brewed making it healthier for your stomach and teeth. How do you brew cold coffee?

Iced coffees are made in a variety of ways. First, you can make hot coffee the way you normally would and then cool it by letting it drip directly into ice. Alternatively, you can cold brew your coffee. You put grounds in cold water and let it steep there for hours before drinking.  When ready, you can strain the mix through a coffee filter or cheesecloth and add it to a glass over ice. Check out these 4 iced coffee hacks for inspiration.

Raspberries – Raspberries are the perfect refreshing summertime food. High in vitamin C and anti-oxidants, raspberries also contain a whopping 8 grams of fiber per cup.  These delicious powerhouse berries also contain natural sugars and are low in calories. Check out my summertime raspberry smoothie recipe.

Kombucha – Kombucha is a fermented tea that offers several health benefits. Similar to other fermented foods, kombucha contains probiotics, anti-oxidants and enzymes that promote digestion and boost immune system response. Kombucha has also been touted for its energy boosting effects – likely due to its vitamin B content and some small amount of caffeine.  You will find kombucha in most health food stores where most cold drinks are kept.

Courtesy of www.drjoey.com