The temperatures are starting to climb and the panic is setting in. Yes, shorts, sundresses, swimsuits and tank tops can only mean one thing: summer’s here and you never lost those extra pounds. Well, the good news is that it’s not too late. In fact, warmer weather can actually help you meet your weight-loss goals.
How? Here’s how you can use summer to your advantage:
- Out and about. Warm weather and clear skies give you the perfect excuse to get outdoors and get active. And that’s really great for those of you who loathe pedaling in place on the gym’s stationary bike. Try a scenic jog, laps in the community pool or a rousing game of ultimate Frisbee.
- Grill, baby, grill. Who needs the stovetop when you can be cooking up some tasty shish kebabs, salmon or London broil on the grill? Grilling your foods allows fat to drip off of them, which not only reduces fat content but calories, too.
- Fruit, glorious fruit! One of the best things about summer is the wide variety of fruits that are in season.
Strawberries, blueberries, peaches and a multitude of melons can all help curb those cravings for sweet treats such as cakes and ice cream. Unlike those offerings, fruit is fat free, high in fiber and other nutrients, and can give you a much-needed energy boost.
- Va-va-va veggies! Like fruit, fresh vegetables abound at local markets in the summer, including corn, tomatoes and peppers. Low in fat and packed with plenty of vitamins and minerals, now’s the time to make them the centerpiece of your meal. Try salads, steamed or grilled vegetables seasoned with spices, lemon or balsamic vinegar. Or sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top. Need help building a healthy dinner plate? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has some wonderful tips.
Of course, even summer has its pitfalls. Try these tips to avoid them:
- Bottoms up! It’s hot, you’re thirsty. But before you reach for the juice, soda, whole milk or the margarita, remember that these drinks are high in calories—and in the case of alcoholic beverages, may rev up your appetite. A better option? Water or seltzer with a slice of fresh lemon or berries for a little kick.
- Summertime temptations. A Fourth of July barbecue or similar gathering can trigger a dietary disaster—if you let it. You can either stick with healthier fare, such as grilled chicken and grilled vegetables, or cut back on calories a week before the event, which will allow you to indulge a little and have fun later. Certain calorie-traps, such as mayonnaise-based potato or macaroni salads, should still be avoided.
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