Summertime is here! We can start enjoying nicer climates and all the fun activities that come with it. And with warmer weather often comes a craving for light, refreshing foods and beverages. From summer salads to cold ice pops, there are lots of great eats to be had and time to enjoy them with our loved ones. Are you ready?
Check out these 5 tips for enjoying a fun and healthy summer season:
Enjoy the outdoors: Whether it be enjoying your workday lunch outside or enjoying a weekend picnic, eating outdoors allows us to get some fresh air and soak up some sun. Enjoying 10-30 minutes a day in the sun also allows our bodies to make all the vitamin D we need (which many of us North Americans need after a long winter with minimal sun exposure). Try finding new places to explore and enjoy some time outside!
Remember to hydrate: With warmer weather comes warmer body temperatures and more water lost through breathing and sweating. It’s important to remember to stay hydrated, so you can avoid things like dehydration and heatstroke. Keep a water bottle with you wherever you go, and spice things up by making your own flavoured water (we like adding strawberries, cucumber, and mint).
Plant a food garden: Reconnect with your food by growing it yourself. If you have a patch of land, patio, or even windowsill, chances are you can grow something. Search the internet for the foods to grow based on your environment and have fun with your own food garden. Whether it be fruits like berries, vegetables like peppers, or even herbs like basil, there are so many things you can grow!
Try in-season eating: In-season eating is a great way to reduce your personal impact on the planet, and help you reduce food costs! In-season foods are often cheaper, whether it be at the grocery store or at the farmer’s market and are usually more nutrient-dense since they’re grown during their natural growing and ripening periods. More and more grocery stores are highlighting their in-season products, so check those out on your local flyers during your next visit!
Discover plant-based recipes: Keep things light and fresh by exploring more plant-based recipes this summer. No matter what kind of dish you are preparing, there are plenty of plant-based recipes that can keep you satisfied. Plant-based options offer a plethora of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, and digest quicker than meat so you can feel energized in the summer sun. Try something new by exploring new plant-based options for your weekly roster!
If you’re interested in diving deeper into these tips, get in touch with your FSEAP Registered Dietitian today! If you’re especially intrigued about our last tip about plant-based eating, sign up for our 30-day Eat Less Meat Challenge! Get the support you’re looking for alongside plenty of tips, tricks and resources, all provided by your dietitian.
The 30-Day Eat Less Meat Challenge
This June, sign up for the 30-Day Eat Less Meat Challenge. Your FSEAP Registered Dietitian will tailor a nutrition plan to your needs and guide you with tips and resources to help you succeed!
In this 30-Day Eat Less Meat Challenge, you will:
Establish your main goal and learn how to break it into manageable tasks.
Discuss your progress with your FSEAP Registered Dietitian in 30-minute weekly conversations.
Be supported and coached throughout the entire 30-day journey.
Receive practical information, recipes and mindful tips to keep you motivated, focused and successful!
Challenge Accepted? Call FSEAP to sign up for the 30-Day Eat Less Meat Challenge, or to find out about the Nutrition Counselling Services.