Whether you have a busy summer ahead or have plans to relax and slow down a bit, the transition to a summer schedule can be the perfect time to incorporate other small changes or expectations. I’d like to encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity to make some healthy changes that can make a difference for you and your family, beyond the warm weather months. Here are a few ideas:
- Start the day out right. Have breakfast! During the school year, it can be a struggle to get a good breakfast into everyone’s belly. Typically, summer can mean a later start to the morning, so take advantage of the extra time and begin the new habit of a healthy breakfast before you head out the door. Be creative, it doesn’t have to be elaborate or traditional (who is a little tired of eggs?), even an apple with peanut butter or lunch meat wrapped around a cheese stick can pack enough punch to get you going!
- Plan ahead. Since the schedule probably changes drastically (no school, yay!) you will need to take a fresh look at your calendar. As you are planning and scheduling upcoming events and appointments, assess and plan for meals and snacks and time to shop and prepare for them. You will not only save time by doing this in advance, you will save on money and stress, too.
- Take advantage of seasonal, ‘super-foods’. Take advantage of fresh foods that are in season and are typically more reasonably priced. This is also a good time to introduce foods you haven’t tried before, in case you find a few you don’t care for (you won’t be out a lot of pennies!)
Did you know? You can cook up cauliflower and substitute it for potatoes or rice for a more nutrient-dense choice!
- Give your comfort foods a make-over. The warmer temps and more active bodies of summer time usually lend to ‘lighter’ foods. For example:
-Ditch the heavy sauces and eat those foods ‘naked’, you may really like the unburdened flavors.
-Turn off the oven and stove and GRILL (fried foods weigh us down). You may even decide to purchase an indoor grill for the winter months!
-Explore substitutions:trade pasta for spaghetti squash, cauliflower for potatoes, and quinoa for rice. The power and flavor of these more nutrient-dense foods may hook you forever!
5. Use smaller plates. It seems simple, but many of us do buy new, durable or disposable tableware in the summertime. Why not make the switch to smaller ones while we are at it? This is a good swap to make anytime-the smaller plate is filled with smaller portions, our eyes are satisfied and our bellies feel better, too!
These are just a few simple ideas you can incorporate that should make your summer happier and healthier-Enjoy, be safe, and be well!
Your Best Fitness Friend
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