Winter can be an unforgiving season -- comfort foods, lack of motivation to get out in the cold, wanting to cuddle up on the couch -- all of those things combine to make the pounds pack on with little notice. But now summer is here and the beach is beckoning. Your summer body, however, is hiding under that winter body! Many people fall into a summer weight loss dilemma every year. Summer weight loss doesn’t have to mean starving yourself to look your best in shorts or swimsuit. The secret to weight loss is to eat healthy foods and get moving more. Fortunately, food choices are actually easy to make during summertime because high calorie dishes are less appealing during the hot season. Take advantage of fresh fruits and vegetables that are at their peak and at their best in summer. Refreshing and light foods are bountiful and keep you out of the hot kitchen. Experts say that the best summer weight loss diet is to load up with nature’s produce. Fruits and vegetables are low in calorie but loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, plus antioxidants and fiber to help your body flush those unwanted toxins and fats. Aside from their health benefits, fruits and vegetables are delectable, juicy, and satisfy the taste buds. Berries, tomatoes, zucchini, melons, cucumbers, peas and other greens are available at farmer’s markets and grocery stores. Forget portion control and go ahead and eat all the fruits and vegetables you can get your hands on. Summer weight loss with nature’s bounty will do your waistline good! Here's a list of summer foods for you to indulge in without guilt: • Berries are luscious and sweet but there is more to berries than meets the appetite. They are known to boost antioxidant levels and help reduce the effects of aging. Berries are also rich in nutrients that help lower cholesterol levels. • Watermelons are loved because they are watery, juicy, and crisp -- perfect for satisfying thirst during the hot season. If you want a tasty summer weight loss drink, mix slices of watermelon with a splash of lemon or lime juice, water, and ice cubes. Whirl in a blender and your perfect juice is ready in a snap. • Fresh salads are a great option for a quick and cost efficient summer meal. They are easy to prepare and the perfect way to get vegetables into your diet. Dress your salad with healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil, walnut oil or your choice of other healthy oils. Salads are a great way of letting yourself off the hook from the hot kitchen. Healthy eating is your best summer weight loss plan. Enjoy a hearty meal and reap the benefits of losing weight, staying fit, and living a healthy lifestyle. Jumpstart your summer weight loss with fruits and vegetables and get in shape for your favorite swimsuit.
