The days are getting warmer and it feels like the perfect time to lighten up.
Summer is a great time to make choices that are lighter, fresher, easier – and more affordable.
Many people are on personal wellness journeys. We’re seeking ways to support our health. We’re trying out new diets, ways of eating, and selection to live more purely. It’s not always easy, but it is worthwhile.
Here are some of the ways that you can support your wellness choices without stressing out about ingredients, cost, or time to prepare.
Plan Your Menus
A lot of people find that when the seasons change, it’s a good time to change menu planning. Menu planning sounds like a lot of work. But in reality, it’s a time saver. Once a week, you can sort out what you’d like to prepare. You can look for ways to cook once but serve twice.
With a menu plan, it’s easier to navigate different dietary needs or restrictions of your household. If you’re balancing more than one diet plan, a menu schedule is a lifesaver.
Many dieticians recommend menu planning as a way to stay organized, healthy, and budget-conscious.
If you haven’t tried menu planning before, don’t let the name scare you. It doesn’t have to be a formal process. Instead, you can make it creative, colorful, and playful.
Here are a few ideas to help you get going.
- Use post-its and sticky notes to get started
- Add lots of colors and colored markers
- Ask your family for their favorites
- Look for ways to eat more greens and fruits
- Plan to ‘cook once – and serve twice
- Use local farmer’s markets to get seasonal foods
Keto-Friendly Granola
This is my new favorite. I just couldn’t find a granola that met all my guidelines until I came across this keto-friendly granola. It is loaded with seeds and superfoods, so you can check off all the boxes from different dietary protocols: Keto, Paleo, vegan, and gluten-free.
Not only is that a relief, but it’s also a lifesaver. If you have a household of roommates or family members following different diets, you won’t need to shop differently.
Instead, you can focus on finding the flavors and options that suit your household. Vanilla almond, cinnamon peanut, or chocolate hazelnut. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it.
Summer Fruits and Vegetables
Take advantage of summer produce. Shop the farmer’s markets in your city and neighborhood. The more you can shop outdoors, the better. You’ll be helping local farmers and small-batch food producers.
While shopping the markets, look out for seasonal specialties such as fruits and vegetables you have not tried. Make it a fun contest to always come home with something that is a novelty for your family.
With a little effort, you can save a lot of money, support local farmers, and expand your scope of food appreciation.
Greek Yogurt
When the weather gets warm, yogurt takes on a new life. Plain Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and wonderfully flexible. If you’re in a sweet mood, add some fresh berries and fruits. Strawberries, blueberries, marionberries – give them all a go.
If you’re looking for a cooling treat, chop up some cucumbers into the yogurt. This is a great addition for spicy foods, and even a quick snack on its own.
Sparkling Water
There’s no question that we need to focus on hydration as the days get longer and the temperatures soar. If you’re on a keto plan, reach for water or sparkling water as your drink of choice.
While it’s entirely allowed to drink unsweetened coffee or tea, you may notice that the added caffeine gets you too wired. Check out what works for you, and make sure that water is on the menu.
If you’re looking for a way to boost your water intake, try these handy tips:
- Get a fresh new glass water bottle
- Start drinking water first thing in the morning
- Track your water intake every day
- Encourage your family to drink water
- Have a water contest with friends and family
- Try out different sparkling water brands
- Add fruits and berries to the water
Sum Up
Summer is the best time to lighten up and eat a healthy diet. If you’re ready for a great summer, use these tips to stay healthy and fit. Plan your menu. Eat keto-friendly granola. Shop the farmer’s markets for fruits and vegetables. Enjoy yogurt and drink lots of water.
You and your family are about to enjoy the great days of summertime.
