Summer is just around the corner! And that means it’s almost time for warmer temperatures, fresh food, and some great outdoor time with family and friends.
And to get the most enjoyment out of all that stuff—and the other activities and adventures I’m sure you’ll be up
to in the coming months—you’re going to want to feel your best.
So today I’m going to share four of my favorite summer diet foods that keep me feeling energetic and boost my health all season long on a variety of levels.
Nutrition is central to how you feel and how your body performs. So whether you want to get out there and walk the golf course, run around with the grandkids, shed a few inches from the waistline, or just battle the heat, what you choose to eat is going to be a determining factor in how much enjoyment you get out of the summer.
4 Healthiest Foods to Include in Your Summer Diet
These are a few of the summer diet foods I’ll have in heavy rotation during the warmer months (and have been eating to get my body ready for summer). I think they can help you, too!
1. Egg Whites
I know they’re pretty unexciting on their own, but man do they have versatility. Egg-white omelets with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichoke, and more can be a mighty tasty and nutritious breakfast while keeping calories down and satiety up! A cup of egg whites also provides about 26 g of protein, which regulates appetite during the day so you don’t make poor choices later on!
2. Avocado
There’s just something about avocado that says fresh to me—especially in the summer. It can be added to almost anything—leafy-green salads, turkey burgers, a can of tuna, whole-grain toast—to supply a good serving of fiber and healthy fats. Aside from being nutrient dense and a categorical superfood, avocado can also help give your skin a nice moist glow!
3. Salmon
It’s light, it’s packed with protein and omega-3s, and it’s one of the most nutrient-dense foods there is. Every calorie in salmon goes a long way, and it lends itself nicely to the barbecue. Cooking it over a cedar plank with some fresh dill and lemon will result in a great summertime meal, whether it’s served on a green salad, beside some Dijon potatoes, or as a burger accompanied by some grilled vegetables or veggie fries.
4. Cottage Cheese
That’s right; I love some cottage cheese…for dessert! But don’t worry, I don’t take it plain. Instead, I make it feel like an ice cream sundae! I take a serving of plain, non-fat cottage cheese (125 g) and add a scoop of protein powder. Then I mix it up with a tablespoon of peanut butter or handful of almonds and some frozen blueberries. It tastes great, it’s packed with protein that keeps my metabolism going all night long, and it’s rich in healthy fats, vitamin C, and other antioxidants.
Enjoy Classic Summer Foods, in Moderation
Of course, that’s not all I’ll be eating. I like to enjoy myself on the weekend. If I’m at a party or BBQ with family and friends, I’m going to taste the pickings. Burgers, beers, steaks, you name it. The thing is, I’ll watch portion sizes and make sure I’m only eating this stuff on weekends or very special occasions. Keeping about 80% to 85% of my meals light and healthy allows for some indulgence from time to time!
I challenge you to incorporate these items into your summertime meal routine. They will help you feel better so you can enjoy a fit and active summer.