You will realize that most of the foods that were warming and comfortable during the winter will not be as appealing during the summer. Due to the heat in the summer, you may want to avoid the heat of the kitchen as much as possible. Most people prefer to take light foods which are easy to prepare thus allowing them ample time to enjoy the sun in the pool. Let us look at some of the foods and drinks that will get you in shape this summer.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits are very important during the summer. Although all fruits are appropriate, those that have a high water content and cooling effect such as water melons will be a favoured choice. You can also try other fruits and vegetables that are high in water content such as cucumbers, watercress, zucchini, berries and pineapples. You can eat these fruits and vegetables as snacks or substitutes for lunch. It is important to note that fruits and vegetables have high nutritional value and they will provide your body with all the nutrients it requires. Fruits and vegetables are high in fibre and low on calories. Therefore you don’t have to worry about gaining weight when you eat them.
Cold Soups
You can substitute lunch with a chilled soup. The soup will provide your body with adequate nutrition without increasing body temperatures. Cold soup will go well with vegetables and precooked meat. A good example of a vegetable that goes well with soup during the winter is squash. You can also take chilled soup with cruciferous vegetables, pepper and tomatoes.
Healthy Snacks
It is most likely that you will spend your summer time on the move. This means that you will have very little time to stay in the kitchen and cook. While you are in motion, it would be very difficult for you to avoid snacks. In fact, you don’t have to avoid the snack but rather you should choose the right ones. Wherever you go, it is advisable that you carry healthy snacks to avoid the temptation of buying junk foods on your way. To avoid the temptation of buying an ice cream in the summer heat, you should consider carrying frozen unsweetened 100% fruit juice. Yoghurt is also a good choice for snacks that you may carry. To make yoghurt more summery, consider sweetening it with fruits.
Grilled Veggies
Barbecues are very popular during the summer. However, barbecues mean a lot of fatty foods and other high calorie foods. Staying healthy does not mean that you completely abandon the food that you love. Therefore, you don’t have to avoid sausages and burgers but you are advised not to make them the main element in your meal. To ensure that your barbecue is low on calories and high in nutrition value, you should grill veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, potatoes and eggplants. There is no limitation to the number of veggies that you can grill and therefore you have the opportunity to grill any vegetable that you please. Some people will grill garlic and onions to make a side dish during the summer.