Summer Planning
May 26, 2017Summer Entertaining
May 31, 2017I find it somewhat easier to adopt healthy habits in the summer. The nice weather makes me want to be outside, so I take extra long walks and runs. (that makes the doggie happy too!) All of the wonderful fresh fruits and vegetables make tasty and healthy snacks and form the basis of delicious healthy meals. I even get a bit more rest as I hang out on my hammock.
Even though it can be easier to be healthy in the summer, you still need to pay attention to some basics:
- When summer reaches its peak, take advantage of early morning or evening hours for your outdoor exercise. There is no need to work out in the heat and humidity of the day.
- Hydrate. You will lose water faster as you sweat in the heat. Increase the amount of water you drink or eat fruits laden with water (they don't call it watermelon for nothing!). You might want to keep a pitcher of water with some citrus or berries in it on your desk at work or in the fridge at home.
- If you are exercising strenuously on hot days, consider drinking some sort of sports drink to replace your electrolytes. (These drinks aren't usually necessary unless you are exercising strenulously.)
- Even though you may not want to eat in the heat, try to have small meals high in nutrients. Salads topped with leftover grilled chicken, hummus and raw veggies, and fruit salad are healthful and filling and don't require cooking.
- If you grill, put on some extra meat and veggies. They can easily be re-purposed into additional meals without additional cooking and they tend to be lower in fat.
- Even though it may be humid outside, that's not a reason to skip your moisturizer.
- Don't forget your sunscreen and your lip balm. Summer sun can do a real number on your skin, so do your best to keep it moist and protected.