Hot weather: The food and drink you must avoid during a heatwave - and what to eat instead

• Yoghurt, fruits and vegetables are highly recommended during hot weather
• Certain fruits and vegetables have a high water content which helps with hydration
• Food and drink to avoid include; spicy foods, alcoholic beverages and hot drinks

Much of the UK is enjoying another ‘mini-heatwave’ after the hottest start to May since records began, meaning we are more likely to get outdoors more to experience the sun.

Hot weather usually calls for quality time with loved ones, which can include going for an ice cream, hosting a barbeque or heading to a beer garden.

However, despite the joy of those things it is also incredibly important to look after our health. We can stay health-conscious during a heatwave by consuming food and drink that will keep us cool and hydrated.

What is the worst food and drink to consume during a heatwave?

Hot drinks, spicy food, alcohol and fried food are a few that should be avoided during hot weather. This is due to regulating body temperature and staying hydrated.

Spicy foods will increase your body temperature, where hot drinks and alcoholic beverages will lead to you being dehydrated.

Fried food and foods high in protein will consume more of your energy, which can not only increase your body temperature but also leave you feeling sluggish.

What is the best food and drink to consume during a heatwave?

The best food and drink to consume during a heatwave includes vegetables, fruits, yoghurts and most importantly - water.

Vegetables such as cucumber, leafy greens, and avocado can help with hydration due to their water content, as well as helping you to feel full while preserving your energy.

Fruits such as watermelon, citrus fruits, bananas, and pineapple are also a good choice during hot weather, again due to water content. Bananas are also high in potassium, which helps to regulate fluid balance.

The likes of citrus fruits and pineapple are high in Vitamin C, which helps you to cool down and feel energised.

Another great option is yoghurt, due to its protein and probiotics content. Yogurt is not only great for keeping cool during the hot weather but also helps you to feel energetic.

As the weather heats up, we look back at the most popular ice creams of the 60s, 70s and 80s which we've loved and lost. How many do you remember?