By Tara Ensour, UK Registered Dietitian
Summer is a very exciting time. While it’s normal to indulge in the food and traditions this season brings, it is always a good idea to create a balance between fun and health.
In fact, one can have a fun-filled break while still following a very healthy routine. Here are my top five tips on how to do it:
1. Having a balanced diet
During the summer, it can be easy to throw away healthy eating habits out the window. My advice is not to change your eating habits drastically. Instead, try to do the following:
Following a regular eating pattern of three meals a day
Ensuring that you get five portions of fruit and vegetables per day
Including healthy fat, lean proteins and whole grains in your meals
Limiting eating out and ordering in, as much as possible
Practicing portion control and slow, mindful eating
2. Limiting your coffee intake
It can be easy to overdo it with coffee, especially as we tend to drink a couple of cups with every house we visit. In this case, ensure that you still focus on hydration and opt for water in place of sugary drinks and juices
3. Being mindful of dessert portions
Just like everyone else, I am a very big fan of desserts. However, one should be mindful of portions when it comes to sweets. For example, try not to have more than two to three small pieces of your favourite sweet a day
4. Staying active
I encourage you to incorporate physical activity during the summer. This does not have to be in the form of a rigorous gym session. Rather, it can be a short evening walk with friends.
Exercise and movement can also be a great way of spending time with your children doing family-friendly activities, like an outdoor game or going on a bike ride around the neighbourhood
5. Prioritising sleep
Try not to ruin your sleep schedule during the summer and aim for eight hours of sleep a night. This will not only mean that you feel rested, but will also ensure you feel rejuvenated when you go to work
Through moderation and mindfulness and by following these simple adjustments, you will have a healthy and happy summer.
You can contact Tara Ensour at [email protected]
