With the sun shining and basking us in its glory with sweltering temperatures, one of the most important things you should be concerned about is keeping yourself fit and healthy.
Sure, while some decent exercise goes a long way, the first steps to staying healthy start in your kitchen. Eating healthy and quality foods can never be overemphasized to keep the body cool and nutritionally fulfilled to beat rising temperatures.
One of the best things about summer is the abundance of delicious and abundantly available vegetables and fruits that you can enjoy. Not to mention, people have the opportunity to wipe the dust and rust off their BBQ grills and accessories for some delicious steak and hamburgers.
In light of this, we're going take a deep dive into understanding some basic diet tips in summer that are easy to follow and will help completely revamp your lifestyle.
Important Things To Consider To Boost Your Wellbeing in Summer
Staying Hydrated Throughout the Day Take Priority
With rising temperatures, the only thing you can do to maintain your composure and health when commuting to work, going anywhere else, or doing any outdoor activity is to keep yourself adequately hydrated.
You'd be surprised to know that the UK, known for its cold to mild weather throughout the year due to global warming, is also witnessing sweltering temperatures. As per one report, it was identified that more than 1,200 people die each year from heatstroke.
Humidity, along with high temperatures, can quickly deplete your body of its electrolytes and water, leading to increased fatigue, exhaustion, and extreme health complications. However, it is also true that drinking 7-8 glasses of water every day can be a bit boring.
So, to make things exciting, you can spruce up your H2O intake by making some easy tweaks. For example, mix some fresh lemon juice, add a dash of mint, and a teaspo
on of honey in your water for a power-packed drink. Not only will you feel hydrated, but you are also going to feel fresh and full of energy throughout the day.
Go For Seasonal Veggies and Fruits
Summer is known for its vibrant array of vegetables and exotic fruits that can help amp up your energy while also keeping you fuller for longer. There is nothing quite like eating a bowl of watermelon while relaxing on a recliner chair on a hot summer day. If you don't like watermelon, you can opt for seasonal berries such as raspberries, blueberries, etc. Make some oatmeal and throw in some berries and bananas for a powerful meal.
Veggies, cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, and other types of leafy greens will help enhance the nutrients of your daily meal plans, keeping your meals packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Incorporate Healthy-Boosting Elements in all Your Outdoor Activities
Summer is often an excellent excuse for families to organize and plan get-togethers with friends or families for some outdoor BBQ grills. Some tend to love spending their weekends picnicking in parks. While planning outdoor events or activities can be fun in summer, it is very important to consider boosting your gatherings with healthy meals.
You can do this by adding fresh and lean proteins combined with grilled vegetables. If you're eating hamburgers, get whole-grain and gluten-free buns instead of wheat
-based items. In addition, try to stay clear of sugary or carbonated drinks and instead make some lemonade or watermelon drinks for hydration, taste, and fun.
Try Preparing and Eating Lighter Meals
Another fact of life, well for many people, is that you don't get that hungry in summer due to the heat. All you feel like having is something cool to drink. However, if you're working from home and having spent a couple of hours burning energy on your standing desk, getting tasks done – do consider eating lighter meals such as soups and salads to keep your caloric intake balanced. Similarly, you could even opt for a delicious smoothie. Try to get in as many nutrients as possible.
Refrain from Consuming To Many Sugary Drinks
The feeling you get from drinking your favourite soda or juice during a hot day is irreplaceable. As tempting as it sounds, you need to understand the fact that a lot of artificially sweetened drinks can lead to dehydration as they contain diuretics.
These are compounds that make you run to the bathroom frequently. So, while you can consume sugary drinks in moderation, you can also add naturally sweetened or
unsweetened beverages such as iced tea, cold coffee, fresh fruit drinks, lemonades, etc.
Be Mindful When Eating
One of the best ways to stay fit and energetic this summer is to be mindful of your diet. If you pay attention, your body will give you clues as to when it gets hungry or thirsty. Savour everything that you eat and eat to satiate your hunger. Never go beyond that. Needlessly overeating may also cause an eventual overheating of your body as it does it all to digest the enormous amount of food you consume.
Introduce a Balance to Your Daily Meals and Diet
While you can consume the best of both worlds (processed and healthy foods) it is important to strike a balance. If you feel like having some ice cream, eat it by all means. But ensure that you have had a meal full of fibre and protein before eating any ice cream.
