8 Refreshingly Healthy Foods to Enjoy This Summer

Watermelon is a perfect, thirst-quenching, summer treat! Not only is it tasty, but watermelon has tons of health benefits too. This juicy fruit contains vitamins A, B6, and C, all of which help boost the immune system, and is also packed with the antioxidant, lycopene, which helps reduce the risk of cancer. Plus, it's great for the heart, and contains absolutely no cholesterol, sodium, or fat.

Cucumbers make a great addition to any salad, or you could sauté some slices and toss them in with a few tomatoes and olives for a light pasta dish. They are very high in water content, which makes them a refreshing choice during the hot summer months, while also keeping you hydrated. Being a terrific source of vitamin C and silica, it's no surprise that this veggie does wonders for the skin, and can even reduce swelling. They also help prevent to Alzheimer's disease and work to buffer the effects of stress. Going on a date? Munch on some slices of cucumber ahead of time to freshen your breath.

Enjoy the summer sun, fire up the grill and throw on some freshly picked ears of corn for a delicious accompaniment to any lunch or dinner meal. By eating corn, you are being protected in ways that you probably didn't even know. It contains natural antioxidants that help filter out the sun's damaging rays to your eyes, acting almost as sunglasses. Those same antioxidants lower the risk of a degeneration that can be the cause of blindness. During the summer, sweet corn is incredibly more fresh and flavorful. It's easy to add corn to any meal, whether it be to a salad, as a side dish, or even as a topping for tacos or enchiladas. We are lucky here in Colorado to have such a booming local corn supply.

Savor a juicy cantaloupe with breakfast, lunch, or even dessert! Cantaloupe may be available year round, but during the summer, they are noticeably more sweet and flavorful. Full of vitamin A, eating this fruit is said to help lower the risk of metabolic syndrome and heart disease. This melon is also a natural anti-inflammatory–that being said, we just might have to go get some right now to cure our burning appetite.

Avocados are another veggie that can be purchased year round, but during the peak season, they are ten times better! A fresh avocado is really yummy when added to sandwiches, salads, or eggs, or you could even whip up some easy, homemade guacamole in just minutes. They contain potassium, and are also a great source of vitamins C and B6. Indulge in this superfood with any meal for a heart-healthy bonus!

Summer season is peak blueberry season! These little berries contain one of the highest amounts of antioxidants of all fruits, and protect and support the entire body. Ranging from cardiovascular benefits to cognitive and blood sugar well-being, it's easy to see why this fruit is such a fantastic choice for anyone to enjoy. There are so many unique recipes out there that feature blueberries as the main ingredient– from breakfast to dessert, it's up to you to get creative! Tip: Stock up and freeze blueberries during the summer, so that you can enjoy them in the winter months too.

Tomatoes might be bright red, but they can also protect your skin from turning bright red in the hot summer sun. Similar to corn, the lycopene found in tomatoes helps to defend the skin from getting sunburned. Tomatoes are packed with natural anti-oxidants and nutrients and are linked to aiding in healthy hearts and bones. With so many varieties available, you can't go wrong with adding juicy tomatoes to a sandwich, pasta, or even dipping some cherry tomatoes in ranch for a healthy snack.

What's a better vegetable to eat during the summer than one that actually has summer in its name? Summer squash differs from winter squash, in the fact that it can be eaten in its entirety, rind, seeds, and all. Squash is great no matter how you decide to cook it– grilled, steamed, or even fried.You could add it to a stir fry dish or marinate it in your favorite sauce and throw it on the grill– the possibilities are endless! There are numerous varieties to pick from, depending on what your taste buds prefer. No matter which kind you select, know that by eating summer squash, you are reducing your risk of heart disease and cancer, while also protecting your vision. And ladies good news– because squash contains a high amount of maganese, it can help to control PMS symptoms, such as mood swings and cramps. Keep your eye out for summer squash at your local farmers' markets.