Summer Nutrition: Tips and To-Dos
Updated: Oct 10
Each season has its own challenges. Winter is known for weight gain, caused by increased levels of sleep hormones and our natural preparation for hibernation. In the summer, weight gain can also be a challenge, since the hot temperatures give us lots of excuses for ice cream and sugary soft drinks. The heat can also make us feel lethargic, which can make exercising more of a challenge.
Another challenge of staying healthy in the summer is that people often have different schedules than they do during the year. Whether it's going on vacation or taking advantage of summer activities offered in most cities, summer is a time when people can break out of routine. While breaking out of routine can be fun and refreshing, it can also mean that you don't have access to the same nutritious menu that you usually have, or you can't stick to the same fitness regimen.
7 Tips and To-Dos for Eating Healthy and Staying Fit in the Summer
Due to the health challenges faced during the summer, we've rounded up 7 tips to keep you healthy and nutritious during the sweltering summer months.
Grill veggiesSummer is barbecue season, but it's not only burgers and hot dogs that you can serve up. Grilled veggies are easy to prepare and they are so flavorful. You can eat them as is or sprinkle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other spices you desire.
Infuse waterWater is the healthiest beverage you can drink, especially when it's hot outside. The problem is, it's so boring, it's no wonder juice, soda, iced tea, and other sugary drinks are much more appealing. To boost your water intake, try infusing it with different fruits and herbs. Citrus fruits, berries, cucumbers, and fresh herbs are all good choices you can check out some winning combinations here or create your own.
Eat inEating at home is always a healthier option than eating in a restaurant or ordering takeout. When you prepare your own food, you know exactly what's going into it. In the summer, when there are many temptations to eat unhealthy foods, eating in is a good way to control what you eat.
Limit alcohol and caffeineIn the summer, it's easy to get dehydrated, which means staying away from caffeinated drinks can only help your chances of maintaining the fluids your body needs. When possible, choose decaf and stay away from caffeinated soft drinks altogether. Alcohol is also a diuretic, which removes fluid from the body, so limiting your intake can help keep your body hydrated.
Get active outsideJust because it's hot outside doesn't mean you shouldn't get out for your morning run or evening walk. As long as you drink plenty of fluids, exercising is an excellent way to stay fit and healthy. Exercise can help control your weight, stabilize blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and more. Plus, when you do it outside, you get the benefits of vitamin D and reduced stress and anxiety.
Sleep WellWhether it's summer, winter, autumn, or spring, if you don't sleep well, you don't have as much willpower during your waking hours to resist the temptations of sweet treats. You also may not have enough energy to exercise. Getting a good night's sleep in the summer will help you exercise your willpower and energize you to stick with your fitness regimen.
Up Your Intake of Seasonal Fruits and VeggiesToday, you can walk into any supermarket and get whatever fruit or vegetable you want. Modern technology and transport have virtually done away with waiting for your favorite fruit to be in season. However, there are many benefits to eating fruit and veggies in season:
They are fresher
They are cheaper
They have a higher nutritional value
They haven't traveled hundreds of miles to get to you
They help support your body's needs as nature intended
In the summer, stone fruit, berries, cherries, watermelon, and more are all in season, so it's best to stock up on these and avoid those that are not in season. Here is a full list of summer fruits and vegetables.
Summer Nutrition Can Go a Long WayWhen you're able to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the summer, you benefit by looking good and feeling good. And if you can stay on top of your nutrition in the summer, you can do it at any time of the year.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle year-round can help you enjoy physical and mental benefits, along with the side-benefit of getting lower rates on life insurance. Health plays a crucial role when calculating a person's monthly premiums, and the rule is that the healthier you are, the better rates you'll get.
Whether you already lead a healthy lifestyle or want to commit to starting, Sproutt insurance advisors are available to help you determine what kind of life insurance is best for you. Simply answer a few questions and we will find the best-value plan for your lifestyle, needs, and budget.