Lose your appetite on hot summer days? To escape the heat, most people might like to indulge in cold dishes or ice cream, sheltered indoors with cool air-conditioning. Physically cooling down with chilled foods, however, can bring only temporary relief. In Chinese traditional food therapy theory, certain properly matched porridges help to relieve the discomfort high temperatures create from your inner body.

Porridge with watermelon peel and green beans

Watermelon peel acts as a diuretic, which helps to clear heat and remove toxicity. Green beans also boost heat prevention and the removal of toxicity. Boil water for 10 minutes before adding rice and green beans. Simmer over low heat and add the watermelon peel. You can decide whether you prefer the soup to be salty or sweet.