Memorial Day is right around the corner, which means summer is almost here. After that you will blink and it will be the 4th of July. Summer is one of the times of year that most people fall off track with their diet and workout routine the most, aside from the winter holidays. When you are out grilling, camping, and staying out by the bonfire all night, the last thing you want to think about is your diet. I do believe in giving yourself a little leeway here and there so you can enjoy life, but it is all about balance.
There are many things you can do to keep yourself from going overboard over the summer holidays. Simple things like swapping out unhealthy choices for healthier ones would even make a huge difference. You don't have to deprive yourself, especially if you tend to be more active during the summer months. These things will help you stay on track this summer, so that you don't have to start over at square one when September rolls around.
Keep Hydrated
We all know by now that if you want to be your healthiest, you have to drink plenty of water. When you don't drink enough water, your body retains any water that it does get. This results in extra bloating, and even weight gain. Not only that, but it can really hurt your body if you are not getting enough water, especially in the hot weather.
The general guidelines for water intake is that you should drink at least half of an ounce for every pound you weigh. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds you should be drinking at least 80 ounces of water a day. Drink water periodically throughout the day, even at set intervals of time to ensure you are getting enough every day.
Stay Active
Some people are more active in the summer, and some people turn into home bodies. Those who don't like the heat very much are more likely to stay inside and lounge where there is air conditioning. If that sounds like you, make sure that you set aside some time for working out at least a few days a week. The saying "abs are made in the kitchen," is true, but that doesn't mean that exercise is not important as well.
Exercising is very beneficial to your body, especially when paired with good nutrition. If you are normally active, it can actually be harmful to your body to take a hiatus over the summer. There are simple things that you can do to get your heart rate up and your muscles working over the summer. If it is too hot outside, you can still workout in your gym or home that has air conditioning. These workouts can counteract any of your splurges over the summer holidays.
Make Healthier Choices
I am not going to tell you that you should skip every barbecue and ice cream outing that you are invited too. Life is all about balance, and eating right a majority of the time. Food was made to fuel our bodies, but treating yourself every now and then is not a crime. The key is knowing when to allow yourself a treat, and when you should make healthy choices. It's not too hard to find the healthy alternative to common summer foods, but it is easy to overeat without realizing it.
You might be surprised to find out how many calories common summer snacks actually have, making your harmless snack a big setback. When grilling out, instead of choosing that bacon cheeseburger, swap it out for grilled chicken. Instead of potato chips choose carrots and celery. Instead of fruit salad have plain fruit without the added sugars. By making these healthy choices, you won't have to feel so bad about having that ice cream snack or s'more later on.
Don't be afraid to let your hair down and enjoy yourself this summer. After all, you have been waiting for this time all year. Don't forget about your goals, because when fall comes around you don't want to be regretting 3 months of slacking. Just remember the 80/20 rule, and keep your body moving. If you follow these easy tips, you will not have a problem staying on track with your health.