Jul 6, 2018

Summer Foods For Weight Loss

Archive.

If the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of summer is “There goes the diet I was planning on sticking to,” think again.  Sure, summer vacations and barbecues do tend to make sticking to a diet harder but eating healthy during the summer isn’t as hard as you think.  The summer months bring so many fruits and veggies into season, and you’ll be surprised at all the delicious, healthy, and barbecue-friendly foods that are available and can even help you lose weight! 

Watermelon –

Watermelon is the classic, refreshing, summer treat.  It’s a great pool-side snack, and it’s good for you too! Because watermelon has so much water in it, it’s a great hydrator, and it is high in antioxidants.  Eat it by itself, in a fruit salad, or even off the grill. 

Tomatoes – 

Tomatoes also have a high water content, so they are a great way to stay hydrated.  They are high in potassium, and they are so easy to include in meals.  Make some yummy summer salsa or add them to your burger or salad. 

Citrus – 

Lemons, limes, and grapefruits are all in season during the summer and super refreshing. Using fresh-squeezed lemon and lime juice is a great way to add flavor to your water or salad without adding calories – do this instead of drinking soda or sugary juices and using salad dressing.  Grapefruits have lots of vitamin C and they help stabilize insulin levels which helps with sugar cravings. 

Peaches 

Peaches are full of vitamin C, which helps make sure that your immune system stays strong and that you don’t end up stuck inside sick during the summer.  They also are rich in beta-carotene, which supports weight loss.  Frozen peaches can be blended to make a healthy alternative to peach ice cream. 

Mangoes –

Mangoes are in season, and the sweet, juicy fruit makes for a refreshing, vitamin-rich snack.  Try adding them to a smoothie or grilling them for a healthy dessert. 

Cherries – 

Cherries contain an antioxidant called resveratrol which is known for helping with weight loss.  They are also bite-sized, making them an easy on the go snack, perfect for a beach day or summer road trip. 

Cucumbers and Zucchini  

Cucumbers are known for being refreshing, and their high water content makes them an extremely hydrating vegetable. They also contain antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties.  Add some slices of cucumber to a glass of water for a refreshing, hydrating drink.  Zucchini, also known as summer squash, contains lots of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full for longer. 

Blueberries 

Blueberries are a sweet, but low-glycemic food, unlike many other sweet fruits.  They make a great snack all by themselves, or they can be added to your favorite salads and smoothies. Try freezing them for a sweet, cool snack. 

Strawberries –

These berries are low calorie and high in fiber.  They are also full of vitamins.  Try freezing some and adding them to smoothies and popsicles. 

Seafood  

Many kinds of seafood contain the protein you need to get you through the day without the extra fat found in many other types of meat.  Seafood also contains omega-3 fatty acids which help with inflammation and weight loss.  So next time you’re looking for some protein, try reaching for some shrimp or salmon. 

These fruits, veggies, and nutrient-rich foods will make you and your family’s summer healthy and delicious, without the worry of gaining unwanted weight. 

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