Summer is a great time to enjoy delicious foods and stay active. With warmer weather, it's important to focus on nutrition to keep your energy up and your body healthy. Here are some tasty tips and ideas to help you make the most of your summer meals and snacks!
The Importance of Nutrition
Good nutrition is vital for everyone, especially during the summer. Eating healthy foods helps you stay strong, boosts your immune system, and keeps your energy levels high for all those fun summer activities. By choosing the right foods, you can enjoy the season while feeling your best!
READ: What is nutrition therapy and can it help you improve your diet?
Easy Ways to Implement Healthy Foods
Here are some simple ways to add nutritious foods to your daily meals:
- Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables: Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh produce! Include seasonal fruits like watermelon, berries, and peaches in your meals. Add colorful veggies to salads, sandwiches, or as snacks.
- Plan and prep healthy snacks: Snacks are an important part of your diet. Instead of reaching for chips or candy, try healthier options. For example, pack sliced veggies with hummus or grab some yogurt with fruit. These snacks are not only tasty but also nutritious!
- Stay hydrated: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, especially in the heat. You can also hydrate with fruits like cucumbers or berries. Infused water with slices of lemon or mint can be a refreshing choice.
- Experiment with simple recipes: Cooking at home can be fun and healthy! Try making a fruit salad, smoothie, or a veggie stir-fry. These are easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Tasty Summer Snack Ideas
Looking for a delicious summer snack? Here are a couple of easy recipes to try:
- Refreshing fruit salad: Combine chopped watermelon, berries, and diced mango. Drizzle with a little honey or lime juice for extra flavor.
- Veggie and hummus cups: Cut up carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Serve them with a small cup of hummus for a crunchy, satisfying snack.
- Frozen yogurt bites: Mix yogurt with your favorite fruits, drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet, and freeze them. They make a cool treat for hot days!
Snack Safety Tips
When enjoying summer snacks, it’s important to keep food safety in mind:
- Keep it cool: When packing snacks for a picnic or day out, use a cooler or ice packs to keep perishable items cold.
- Wash fruits and veggies: Always wash produce before eating to remove dirt and pesticides.
Making healthy food choices during the summer doesn’t have to be hard. By focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables, planning nutritious snacks, and staying hydrated, you can enjoy the season while feeling great.
So, get creative in the kitchen, explore new recipes, and savor the flavors of summer!
Lee Health Solutions: For a healthier you
A Lee Health Solutions nutrition expert can help you learn to eat better, lose weight, and feel empowered to live your best life.
To learn more about our in-person and virtual programs, call a program navigator at 239-424-3120.
Got Gluten Free? Listen to Val!
A gluten-free diet is essential for managing signs and symptoms of celiac disease and other medical conditions associated with gluten. Listen to Lee Health registered dietitian Valerie Butram explain why your doctor may recommend this diet to you.
Monday, July 22, 2024
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
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609 SE 13th Ct.
Cape Coral, FL 33990
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