While you enjoy your summer fun, staying hydrated and nourished is essential. Why? Because drinking enough water and eating the right foods helps your heart stay healthy, especially when it's hot outside. Your heart works hard to keep your body cool, and staying hydrated helps it do its job well.

With that in mind, let's explore some yummy (and refreshing!) summer snacks and drinks that are great for your heart.

Drink Up for a Happy Heart

What is the healthiest drink for your heart? Plain water is always a sure-fire go-to. It's naturally hydrating and has no added sugar. But water doesn't have to be boring. Here are some fun and heart-healthy ways to enjoy your drinks this summer.

?      Infused waters. Make your water taste amazing by adding fresh fruits and vegetables. Try lemon or orange slices, colorful berries, cool cucumber or fresh mint. You can even mix watermelon and rosemary for a unique flavor. These add vitamins and antioxidants without extra sugar.

?      Homemade lemonade alternatives. Instead of sugary lemonade, try mixing sparkling water with fresh lime juice. You can add a splash of cranberry juice or a few mashed berries for natural sweetness.

?      Smoothies with a twist: Blend fruits and vegetables with water or unsweetened almond milk for a quick, cool drink. Think spinach and banana, or berries and yogurt.

Other tips to follow include avoiding alcohol, which can dehydrate you, and limiting sports drinks, which are often high in sugar.

Snack Smart for a Strong Heart

Eating smart this summer is just as important as drinking smart. These foods and drinks are good for your heart and include snacks that highlight seasonal fruits and vegetables. They're a good source of vitamins and fiber, which help reduce the risk of coronary artery disease and keep your blood pressure in a healthy range.

?      Fruit skewers with yogurt dip. Thread chunks of melon, berries, grapes and pineapple onto skewers. Serve with a dip made from plain unsweetened Greek yogurt mixed with a tiny bit of honey or vanilla. Yogurt is an excellent source of protein and calcium.

?      Watermelon "pizza.” Cut a big round slice of watermelon. Top it with other sliced fruits such as kiwi, blueberries and raspberries. You can even add a sprinkle of unsweetened coconut shreds.

?      Cucumber bites with cream cheese. Slice a cucumber into thick rounds. Spread a little light cream cheese on top, then sprinkle with a pinch of dill or a tiny piece of smoked salmon. Salmon has omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart.

?      Frozen fruit "popsicles." Blend your favorite fruits (strawberries, bananas or mango) with water or unsweetened juice. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for a super cool, natural treat.

?      Edamame. These little green pods are fun to eat and a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. Just boil them and sprinkle them with a bit of salt.

Choosing nutritious foods as part of your healthy diet is one of the best ways to care for your heart all summer. Remember, every sip and every bite can help keep your heart strong and happy.

Want to learn more about keeping your heart healthy? Find a Union Health provider today.