Summer Meal Tips

Summer is a good time to make quick and easy adjustments to your current eating and exercise habits. Changing into shorts and bathing suits may be a motivating factor for many people, but your number one priority should be improved blood glucose control. Summertime is supposed to be fun, with less pressures and distractions, so let’s examine how you can work in some simple lifestyle changes.

Dilute Unhealthy Foods

If you can’t avoid eating pre-sweetened cereals, try to “dilute them” with cheerios, Kashi or a whole grain bran cereal. Each time add less sweet cereal to the bowl until you are able to eat and enjoy the plain whole grain cereal. Add cinnamon and fresh fruit for sweetness. Try this when you are eating salted nuts, regular BBQ sauce, mayonnaise or ketchup. Buy the low-fat/sugar-free versions and dilute the regular food products. Often you are attracted to the sugary/salty taste from long standing eating habits, and find it difficult to make the transition in one easy step. Many times adding healthy choices gradually makes the transition permanent. Always remember – it is more about the portion size than the actual food choice, and a sweet treat now and then is not off limits.

Increase Metabolism

Most studies show that there are no real foods that speed up metabolism. There is solid evidence that the best way of building muscle mass to speed metabolism is through a weight training / resistance program. It does not require lifting heavy weights, but it should consist of 30 minutes of training 3 times a week with sufficient repetitions. You can also use resistance bands for increased muscle mass. Consult with a certified trainer prior to lifting weights to prevent injuries. Check with your physician to rule out cardiac issues prior to starting weights.

Stay Satiated

With all the fresh and abundant summer produce, you can easily fill up and feel satiated. Many summer fruits and vegetables contain large amounts of water which can keep you full longer. Melons, cucumber and celery have high water contents. The high fiber content in fruits and vegetables help maintain better blood sugars and keep you feeling full longer.

Stay Hydrated

Summer heat and humidity can make you dehydrate quickly and often you can confuse thirst and hunger. Low calorie drinks should be readily available and kept icy cold. Drink even when you are not thirsty since thirst comes late in the process of needing sufficient fluids. Drinking a glass of water prior to your meal may take the edge off your hunger.

Resist Trigger Foods

Try not to buy trigger foods to eat at home. Summertime is the best time to go to the local ice cream stand and grab a cup or cone of your favorite flavor. You should limit and choose these trigger foods only on special occasions. Going out for ice cream prevents you from opening the freezer a dozen times and attacking the container with a spoon. If you live with someone who enjoys the same trigger foods, come up with a plan to reduce temptation – even though they are kept in the house.

Eat Mostly at Home

Many people avoid the kitchen in the summer months. By preparing food at home you have better control over fresh ingredients and portion size. Lazy hot summer evenings may require smaller dinners and lighter choices. A big salad with lean protein, garbanzo beans and croutons (carbohydrates) may be perfect for a dinner meal. Summer heat often reduces your appetite, and staying out of a hot kitchen is a preferred choice. Try the outdoor grill. Grilling is a great way to prepare your summer meals without a lot of added fat or calories. Try Walden Farms sugar free BBQ sauce and marinades. Marinades keep your food moist and reduce the risk of carcinogens from the grilled meats. Try not to over-cook, burn or deeply sear your meats. Use apple cider vinegar and olive oil to add great taste and soften the meat. Add fresh herbs and spices to the marinade for low-calorie flavor. Grill eggplant, tomatoes, corn, sweet potatoes, peppers and summer squash for a side dish. Grill peaches, pineapple and bananas for a sweet and easy dessert.

Plan Summer Meals Ahead of Time

Do most of your cooking on the weekends so it gives you more free time during the summer evenings and keeps the kitchen cool. Being prepared with meals will help you from making poor food choices or skipping a meal. Keep the meals individually wrapped and heat quickly in the microwave.

Apps and Tools

Use apps for summer meal ideas and calorie / carbohydrate content. Try Calorie King or My Fitness Pal. Get a pedometer to measure steps. Find healthy take-out choices.

Always Include Aerobics

A 30-minute walk after dinner is even easier during the summer months. Studies show walking after dinner is excellent for maintaining good blood sugar control in those who have diabetes. For those who can’t walk for an entire 30 minutes because of peripheral vascular disease, orthopedic problems or other circulatory issues, divide it into smaller 5-10 minute increments. Certain health problems may prevent any amount of walking. Try using a pool, which is more accessible during the summer months. Bicycle riding can be done around the park or neighborhood. These options may also work for those who have balance problems, arthritis or fibromyalgia.