Summer Strategies

Summers are for salads and smoothies…but beware the cocktails, bbq’s, and social gatherings. It’s about fun and spontaneity! It’s late nights and lazy afternoons. It’s easy to get off course during this carefree time, but stay true to your values and prioritize your health so you can enjoy many more summers to come!

 

Summer is by far my favorite season of the year! I love the long days - the bright mornings. I love to wear sundresses and flip flops. I love the free spirit of summer. BUT…sometimes it is tricky to stick to healthy habits during this fun-filled time.

“Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is about.”

-John Mayer

Top Tips for staying healthy this summer:

  1. Preparation is key!

    • Prep some food/snacks ahead of time, so you always have “fast food” ready to go!

    • Check the menu at the restaurant prior to going so you can enjoy the company and ambience without stressing over what to order

    • Call the hotel and see if they have a gym - plan your workouts accordingly

  2. Stay Hydrated and Fueled!

    • Pack food and water when you leave the house

    • Keep snacks in the car or your purse - just in case

    • Have one glass of water between every alcoholic beverage

    • Replace lost electrolytes - the sun can really take it out of you!

  3. Stick to your routine - don’t let summer be an excuse for letting go of your healthy habits!

    • Stay active - look for opportunities to try different fitness endeavors like hiking and paddle boarding. Try online fitness if you just can’t seem to get to the gym - we must strength train!

    • Stick to your normal sleep/wake cycles even though it stays lighter later.

    • Stick to your supplements. I love my morning cocktail - I don’t ever miss it because I would really miss it. It makes me feel grounded and even if I don’t eat or exercise the way I would normally, I know I have done something healthy for my body.

    • If you have a morning routine, continue with that even if your days look different - adjust as needed, but keep your self care a priority!

Check out this informative video for loads of fun, practical and yummy ideas for SummeR:

Video Cliff Notes

Airplane / Road Trip / Hotel / Restaurant / Potluck

  1. What to pack:

    • Protein Pancakes (can be frozen)

    • hummus pack with veggies and seed crackers

    • HB eggs (with an ice pack)

    • packs of tuna / salmon

    • prepackaged nuts

    • fruit like apples and oranges

    • packs of protein powder

    • protein bars / snack squares

    • rice cakes with nut butter

  2. Hotel:

    • Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need - for example: a microwave or blender

    • Hotel room meal idea: 1/2 cup dry oatmeal, little pack of nuts, 2 scoops protein powder - use coffee maker to cook the oats, make pudding out of protein with water - add nuts on top

    • Fill your water bottle at the gym - they usually have a water dispenser with filtered water

  3. Restaurants:

    • check out menu before you go

    • opt for lean proteins and colorful veggies

    • ask for gluten free / dairy free or vegan - then, add protein

    • Beware of salads - not always the healthiest option (check for cheese, dressing, croutons, fried protein, etc)

  4. Potlucks / Picnics:

    • Bring a healthy option and/or eat before you go

    • Fill up on protein and veggies first, then opt for less nutrient-dense options

    • Focus on friends and your surroundings first, then food

    • Beware of overconsumption of alcohol - one glass of water for every glass of wine or cocktail

 
Joan Dandeneau