What to eat for that bathing suit in the heat!
Everyone knows that summer is the time of the year that we all look forward to the most. The problem is, though, that right after the holidays we realize how much extra water weigth we have put on and that we only have a few months to get in shape. Putting on that bathing suit is what most of us fear, and let’s face it, you really can’t go to the beach with out a bathing suit. Below is a list of ten foods that go along perfectly with the summer weather, but that more importantly keep you looking great in that bathing suit so you can hit those waves with confidence!
1. Grapefruit
Yes boys and girls. Your mother has been telling you this since you were able to tie your shoes for a reason. Because they are a low calory food, that means you can eat it without consuming too much of it. Also, because it is low in sodium it helps rid your body of extra water weight, and most importantly, the enzymes within the fruit increase your metabolism so you burn fat while you eat it. Plus, it’s refreshing in the heat!
2. Fruit Smoothie
Rather than heading to your local ice cream shop, opt to make yourself a fruit smoothy. Throw your most favorite things in it, such as blueberries, strawberries, and a non-fat vanilla yogurt, and you have a meal that has only a quarter of the calories of that ice creamc one you were going to have, and it’s still frozen and perfect for that hot summer day. Plus, it will give you a boost of energy!
3. Egg Whites
You’ve probably given a weird stare at that person ordering the egg whites in front of you at the deli, but believe it or not, egg whites are delicious and making this small change in your breakfast ritual will not only take less time to cook, but will take out 75% of the calories. Add some green peppers and you have a light meal to jump-start your summer day!
4. Veggie Burgers
This healthy alternative is no secret to anyone. It is called a veggie burger for a reason. Rather than having the fat that is in your regular hamburger, it is solely made up of vegetables and beans, so not only do you get protein but you get vitamin C and fiber. Have this with a whole wheat bun, or without one, and you will be enjoying a light and tasy meal while sitting at that restaurant by the beach. Add your favorite trimmings to it and it may just be your new favorite!
5. Salads
This is also of no shock to you. One of the healthiest meals you can eat to help you lose weight is a salad, and in humid weather where it is 80 degrees, it can be refreshing, just as long as you have the right ingredients. Rather than crotons and dressing, have it with only pepper or oil and vinegar. Rather than iceberg lettuce, have it with spinach, some cucumbers, sprouts, carrots and even some seasoned chick peas and you will feel full but ready to hit the ocean for some wave catching!
6. Green Tea
Next time you go to your local coffee shop this summer and think about getting that iced coffee, try getting an iced green tea instead. Doesn’t sound appetizing? Add some honey and you will thoroughly enjoy this refreshing beverage. Green tea has been known to slim you down because of the antioxidants called catechins which increases fat burning. You won’t regret it!
7. Pears
So you of course knew that pears were healthy because they are a fruit, but did you know that they have MORE fiber than apples? This means that they fill you up and decrease blood-sugar levels so you avoid more snacking throughout the day. Studies have shown that eating two pears a day and replacing this with snacking will help you lose weight and also will taste great in the hot summer heat!
8. Cinnamon
Everyone for the most part gets a sugar rush during the day, so trying to find something to help cure this craving, especially with the hot summer months and wanting to have ice cream, is tough. However, if you add cinnamon into your diet, such as putting it on toast or in yogurt, your sugar craving will be drastically decreased. That post-meal sugar craving will be virtually gone.
9. Almonds
Now I know looking at this food does not make you want them, however, add some cranberries or raisins with them and you have yourself a light and summery snack that will keep you satisfied until your next meal so you don’t snack on sugary or salty things. Almonds have a ton of vitamin E and fiber, and block the body’s absorption of fat and carbohydrates. They also make you feel full quickly after only a small amount.
10. Fish
Most people get excited about seafood during the summer. They want to go to their favorite restaurant and chow down on that flounder on the dock by the water. If you will notice, though, most people who eat a diet that is rich in fish tend to be thinner overall. Fish contains a large amount of Omega – 3 Fatty Acids which have been proven to decrease the growth of fat cells and may reduce fat mass within your body. So get even more excited about seafood this summer, because it will only make you look better!