Surviving Summer

Whilst most of the country is experiencing excessive heat here are my 10 tips to keep your body nourished and hydrated

1. Drink. More. Water – whilst you think you have had enough, you probably need to have some more. If you are feeling thirsty – you are already hydrated so keep your water bottle on hand at all times 
2. Add cucumber – whether it’s a veggie stick as a snack or too your salad or green smoothie, cucumber is high in water and electrolytes 
3. Add coconut – no matter what form (flakes, water, milk) coconut has an abundance of electrolytes necessary for replacing those lost through excessive sweat 
4. Watch the sugar – when it’s hot you tend to crave more sugary drinks as an alternative to water. Try using herbal tea (such as raspberry and cranberry) as an iced tea. 
5. Go for berries – let berries be your fruit of choice they are high in vitamin C and antioxidants to reduce the damage that the harsh summer sun has on our skin  
6. Don’t skip a meal – often when it’s hot we don’t feel as hungry filling up on water and other liquids. Never miss a meal. If you aren’t feeling hungry try a smoothie or protein shake to ensure you are getting valuable nutrition 
7. Add tomatoes – these are in season, high in vitamin A & E and so refreshing. Don’t forget to add them to your salads, wraps and as a snack on crackers with avocado 
8. Add mangoes – another delicious fruit high in nutrients especially potassium and in season. Potassium helps reduce water retention especially from sodium intake overload 
9. Frozen = ice cream – yep that’s right you may as well have the ice cream (unless your MYO). It has the same (if not more carbohydrates) and only slightly less fat. Go for natural pot set yoghurt 
10. Skip the dressing – whilst summer sides are mostly salads watch the dressings that tend to go on top of them. Stick with the basics such as a balsamic vinegar or lemon and olive oil with basil.

For more help achieving your summer goals why try a 7 DayClean Eating Meal Plan to get you eating clean, lean and delicious foods.