As the heat rises, we are continually looking for ways to stay cool. Popsicles, slushes, and snow cones are considered staples during a Texas summer, but many are filled with added sugars that can hinder any nutrition goal. For example, two ounces of the snow cone syrup can have up to forty one grams of sugar! That is the equivalent of twelve ounces of soda! To beat the heat and keep your nutrition goals, we have some healthy chiller ideas (brain freeze sold separately) that will help cool you down, without the extra calories.

Freeze your favorite infused water or fruit blend

Current drink trends include infused waters such cucumber- lime, basil-strawberry, and watermelon-mint. Adding the fruit or vegetable mixture into a water pitcher or blending the mixture with water can be a refreshing change to your hydrating routine. You can also take it a step further and freeze it in ice cube or popsicle trays to get a sweet treat that will replenish electrolytes without the added sugar.

Ask for ice at the snow cone stand

Fresh lime juice and a splash of cranberry sound refreshing? How about orange juice with a pineapple twist? You can find all these yummy flavors at home and can be great additions to a snow cone! If you are looking for a healthy summer treat, these options are right up your alley. Just bring the mixture with you or take your shaved ice home and experiment with your favorite fruit and vegetable blends!

Cool down your hot recipes

Hot teas, coffees, and even soups can be hard to drink or eat in the hot weather. Switch it up and make fun and healthy cold recipes like cold cucumber or tomato basil soup. Also, blending your hot coffee with ice, low-fat milk, and your favorite flavored extract can add a boost to your morning and keep you cool without sacrificing your nutritional goals.