Tips for a Healthy Happy Summer

Have a Guilt Free Summer.

Weekends at the beach, outdoor dinners with friends, and backyard barbecues all have two things in common, the people we love and food temptations galore! If you’re trying to lose weight this summer, on the BeBalanced program, or you simply want to eat healthier, you might be thinking you’re better off steering clear of all those fun summer events loaded with temptations. But hey, let’s face it, life isn’t going to simply stop while you are trying to make better food choices or lose weight, nor should it! Many of my clients reach out to me during this time of year in a panic so I thought it might be helpful to share some tips on how to fully enjoy your summer, without feeling deprived or being completely derailed.

Put on your Positive Pants!

Change your focus from feeling like you’re missing out on something, to creating a life you love, doing things that make you happy, and taking care of yourself and your needs. Understand that spending time with friends and family does not need to be associated with over eating or over indulging. Keep in mind that when you celebrate, you are celebrating the people and experiences in your life, not food. Remind yourself daily, that you have the power to do anything you put your mind to. Making the time to take care of yourself, is a decision that will empower you in all aspects of your life. The benefits you will experience will encourage and motivate you. You’ve got this, and we are here to help.

Clear your Head and Breathe.

Daily use of the relaxation techniques, like those on our program, are key to helping you achieve natural hormone balance. Practicing calming tools before you head to an event or gathering, such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, journaling or using essential oils, will help to lower cortisol levels and stabilize your blood sugar, thus curbing cravings and will help keep you calm and focused. Speak positive words about yourself and your goals while heading to your social event.

Hydrate to Feel Great.

During the hot summer months, heat and sweat can leave your body dehydrated. A lack of water is harmful to your body and can also make you crave food when you’re not actually hungry. Before you head to that summer shindig, make sure you consume at least 3/4 of your daily water requirements, which we suggest is half your body weight in ounces. Oftentimes, we think that we’re hungry, but we’re really just thirsty. Many of the feelings associated with being hungry, such as an empty, gurgling stomach, and low energy levels, also strike when you’re running low on H2O. I have also found it helpful to take a big bottle of water with me when I go to gatherings. I love infusing my water with some cucumber slices, fresh berries, or lemon and lime juice.

What should I Choose?

In the words of Teddy Roosevelt, “Do the best you can, with what you have, where you are.” You might not be able to plan the full spread at a barbeque or gathering but there are some great ways you can make better decisions! If you’re headed to a potluck, bring a dish that you know is healthy. That way, if all else fails, you can fill up on that first.

Since protein will keep your body full and your blood sugar stabilized, and the only options might be processed hamburgers and mystery meat hot dogs, ask the event organizer if you could bring your own protein sources to share! Think chicken, grass fed burgers, salmon, or steak. Often, I will prepare marinated chicken, or steak, and veggie kabobs to take along (see example recipe on the right). It’s a great way to feel like you’re bringing a “dish” without offending the host.

Most parties have some sort of veggie tray so opt to bring a healthy alternative to dip them in. I love making my own veggie dip using Greek yogurt (see recipe on the right). Another trick I use, is to simply bring along bib lettuce or romaine as a great alternative to using bread. You can also try filling a hollowed-out bell pepper with chicken, tuna or egg salad. Besides protein, fill up on non-starchy vegetables and fruits. Butternut squash and sweet potatoes can serve as a good replacement for regular potatoes and other starchy sides.

What about all those Heavenly Deserts?

If at all possible, steer clear of the dessert table and opt for fruit as a sweet treat. Better yet, bring your own healthy alternatives. I love making summer popsicles out of lime juice and frozen berries, homemade frozen yogurts, or my favorite cookies; Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Cookies (see recipes on the right).

Eating Out on the Town.

Choose restaurants that are better suited to fit your needs. Think steak houses or seafood restaurants rather than sandwich shops. If you know they serve bread, ask the waiter not to bring any, to avoid being tempted or filling up on excess carbs. When deciding what to choose, focus on a protein choice such as seafood, steak, or chicken. Choose vegetables or a salad as your side(s). One trick I use at restaurants, to watch my portion sizes, is to ask the server for a to-go container ahead of time. That way when my food comes, I can and split it in half to eat later.

Cheers!

Most summer events seem to go down better with an ice-cold beer or a fancy fruity cocktail sitting outside enjoying the warm weather. I’m certainly not saying you should never drink, but when you do, there are certainly options that are better than others. The best choices for alcoholic beverages are those made with clear liquors, such as vodka or gin. The main sugar loaded culprit in mixed drinks is actually what you mix the alcohol with. Try mixing your liquor with seltzer or soda water and add flavor with fresh lemon or lime juice or muddled berries. If you choose not to drink but want to feel like you are participating, drink your non-alcoholic beverage in a fun glass such as a wine or martini glass. Add some low calorific flavoring to water such as a piece of fruit or opt for healthy alternatives like green tea or coconut water.

Don’t beat Yourself Up!

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that promotes feeling your best is a choice. If you choose to indulge, try do so sparingly and only on occasion. Don’t let your trip or event completely derail you – choosing to deviate on a special occasion will do a lot less damage than throwing in the towel. And most of all, give yourself some slack and remember that no one is perfect. Come up with a plan ahead of time and do your best to stick to it. If you go a little overboard, just wake up the next day ready to get right back on track!

Let us Help.

Many women are left feeling discouraged when traditional diet and exercise plans don’t help to drop stubborn weight. What people may not realize is the root of the problem can be a hormone imbalance issue. Our program uses the power of natural hormone balancing to work with your body to correct two key hormone imbalances that are holding you back. We provide an innovative Hormone Balancing weight loss program, relaxation tools and supplements to help you achieve overall physical well-being by targeting the hormones that affect your weight, sleep, mood, and energy. For more information about our program, contact us today! Click here to find a BeBalanced Center near you!

Remember, you are amazing, and you can do anything you put your mind to!