Summer is the time to enjoy the heat, the beautiful outdoors, and possibly go on vacation. This means that you will be outdoors and sweating while partaking in fun activities. This will then increase the risk of health problems like dehydration, skin sensitivities, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. During the summer months, there are also a lot of delicious and healthy treats to “indulge” in. Local fruits and vegetables are at the peak of their nutrient abilities. These fruits and vegetables will not only keep you feeling and looking your healthiest but also keep your system cool.
During the summer months, hydration is key. Drinking plenty of water and other drinks that contain electrolytes, like BodyArmor and Powerade, will be important. Eating fruits and vegetables will also help the intake of daily fluids. Making sure that the fruits and vegetables are fresh will help raise the intake of your water due to the higher water concentration. Orange and red fruits are full of substances that will help protect the skin from the sun along with brightly colored dark veggies being filled with antioxidants. Another option to get hydrated is to drink fruit smoothies and juices. Just make sure to drink the juices and smoothies that are full of whole fruits with little to no sugar added.
Meals during the summer are always more fun as people can enjoy the weather and BBQ with friends and family outdoors. Try to BBQ more healthily by marinating the meat with spices and herbs rather than fats and sauces. BBQ also doesn’t mean that you have to make burgers and hot dogs as processed meats are not recommended. Try healthier meat options that many will appreciate, such as shrimp kebabs or grilled chicken. There is also the possibility of trying to grill things like vegetables and fruits with the meat to bring out the flavor. Grilled salads are also a great option, as salads are much tastier with grilled vegetables like asparagus and butternut squash. Adding grilled chicken or salmon along with some healthy fats like olive oil and avocado will leave you feeling more satisfied.
Portions are another thing to think about, especially in social situations. Overeating tends to happen more in group settings when one is distracted. Making sure to plan the meal before creating the plate is a good tactic to avoid this. An easy suggestion is to load the plate half full with salad and then add lean protein.
Summer provides a great opportunity to be outdoors with friends and family and gather around delicious foods to fuel your body. Understanding what foods to intake and how to serve them to yourself and others will create a healthy and satisfying way of living all summer long!
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