Seven Ways to Eat Smarter This Summer

With summer season simply around the edge, you might discover yourself struggling to eat right with the temptations of BBQs, picnics and other summer feasts. If you are not sure where to begin– right here are a couple of simple pointers for how to be healthier this summer season.

1. Snack Smarter.

2. Get a “Handle” on Portions.

3. Slash Your Soda Intake.

Can you dedicate to going soda-free this summertime? Why not! Try slowly weaning yourself off calorie-containing soft drinks. Delicious, thirst-quenching alternatives consist of unsweetened iced tea or water with slices of orange or lemon. If you wish to keep your ‘fizz’, try a beverage of 1/4 cup 100 % fruit juice mixed with seltzer.

4. Choose Low-Calorie Sauces and Dips.

Take advantage of terrific summer salads for main dishes and appetizers, but have sauces and dressings served on the side. This step alone can save you hundreds of calories. Instead of splashing salads with rich dressings, dip your fork into a little meal of dressing then get your food. This will impart the taste of your dressing with every bite, but without adding a lot of calories. If you discover yourself at a celebration with lots of chips and dips … either prevent them altogether, or part out a handful of chips (better yet – go for veggies if they’re readily available) and join a few tbsps of healthier dips like hummus, salsa, or bean dip.

5. Eat Breakfast.

Really. I suggest it. This one can make a big distinction in how many total calories you eat for the day. A healthy breakfast option may develop your hormonal appetite law system for the day. A scone or muffin with coffee might sound good, however will not tame your cravings or temper your appetite as much as a protein-rich morning meal from eggs (6 grams protein per 70-calorie med egg), egg whites (the protein is split between the yolk and white however the white is lower in calories), oatmeal with peanut butter or yogurt (esp Greek yogurt), yogurt or home cheese with fruit, or nut butters with a protein-rich whole-grain bread. If you are consuming cold cereal, try to find brand names that offer a minimum of 6 grams protein per serving and have with a cup of skim or 1 % milk will include an extra 10 grams protein.

6. Make Mondays Meatless. 

You could’ve heard the “Meatless Mondays” slogan, which started as a means to assist the war effort during WWI. Now it’s an across the country movement (meatlessmonday.com). Why take the pledge? Going meatless simply one day a week can decrease your risk for cancer and other significant wellness issues.

7. Broaden Your “Grain Universe”.