Summer is an exhilarating and vibrant time of the year, eagerly anticipated by everyone. It's a period of celebration, connection, and, of course, delicious food. Resisting temptations becomes challenging when surrounded by an array of delightful dishes, such as Gujiya and Dahi Vada. Most festival foods are oily, spicy, or high in sugar, which can lead to weight gain and derail your diet. However, adopting certain healthy cooking methods can make the food just as enjoyable. While summer is all about fun, sticking to your weight loss diet during this time may be difficult, but it's worth attempting.
- Breakfast
During summer, opt for a light breakfast, such as plain poha, or pair it with curd. This keeps your stomach full and is easily digestible. Additionally, having a salad or a bowl of oats before summer gatherings will prevent overeating and keep hunger at bay.
- Hydrate Yourself
Despite the abundance of water around us during summer, it's essential to focus on staying hydrated. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. Warm water aids in detoxification and digestion. Adding freshly squeezed lemon juice to warm water helps flush out toxins from your system.
- Choose Healthy Desserts
Instead of indulging in sugary treats, explore healthier options that are equally delightful. Nutritious desserts like beetroot halwa, fruit smoothies, makhana kheer, and dates kheer are available. Replace sugar with dates as a healthier alternative.
- Opt for Fresh Substitutes
- Experimenting with healthier versions of your favorite summer recipes can significantly contribute to a healthier summer. Some alternatives to traditional summer dishes include baked gujiya, frozen yogurt, and fruit raita.
- Eat in Moderation
Consuming excessive amounts of food, especially those high in sugar, salt, or fats, can have serious repercussions. Practice moderation and listen to your body's signals.
- Avoid Hand Contact with Food
To prevent harmful bacteria from entering your body, avoid touching food with unwashed hands. Use utensils like forks or spoons while eating.
- Don't Feel Obligated to Finish Everything
Summer food offers a variety of flavors and options, but you don't have to eat everything. Practice restraint and sample a few items without overindulging.
- Limit Yourself to One Serving
While it may be tempting to go back for seconds or thirds, it's not beneficial for your health. Limit yourself to one small portion of summer foods to avoid weight gain.
- Minimize Alcohol Consumption
Summer celebrations often involve excessive drinking, which can lead to consuming unhealthy foods. After the festivities, give your body a break from alcohol to prevent weight gain.
- Have a Nutritious Dinner Before Indulging in the Celebration Feast
Eating a salad or a bowl of oats before summer celebrations will prevent overeating and keep you feeling full.
Post-Summer Dietary Tips
- Drink Detoxifying Beverages
Lemons are known for their ability to aid digestion and treat various stomach-related issues. Incorporate lemon water into your post-summer detox diet to cleanse your body of toxins accumulated during the festivities. Additionally, start your day with a glass of cucumber water to hydrate and rejuvenate your body.
- Consume Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Include low-glycemic fruits and vegetables like apples, kiwi, papaya, and berries in your post-summer diet. These foods are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
- Stick to Light, Oil-Free Home-Cooked Meals
Opt for light meals like khichdi, rice poha, oats, cereal, and quinoa salad in the days following summer celebrations. Limit salt intake and avoid sugar to help your liver detoxify and regenerate.
- Get Adequate Rest
After the excitement of summer celebrations, give your body 8-9 hours of sleep to recover and rejuvenate. Disconnect from electronic devices and unwind before bedtime with green tea or turmeric milk and calming music.