4 Summer Habits to Avoid When Sticking to a Healthy Lifestyle

Now that summer is here and the weather is warm enough to enjoy time outside, there are many choices you have to make in order to stay living a healthy lifestyle this year. Between the barbecues and picnics, there are many foods you should stay away from and healthier alternatives which are just as delicious. These are the habits to avoid this summer and healthier choices to make.

Going Overboard at Barbecues

While at barbecues make good choices like opting for a hamburger instead of a hot dog which are high in saturated fat and sodium. Also choose meats like salmon, turkey, or beef and for toppings, avocado is a better option than mayo or ketchup. For the sides, fill your plate with veggies, vinaigrette based pasta or salads, and hummus.

You’re Drinking Frozen Beverages and Smoothies

Fruity alcoholic cocktails have tons of added sugar, so when choosing drinks, a glass of wine or vodka with soda water and lime are a better bet. For smoothies, although they are made with fruits and vegetables, they also have lots of added sugar. If you are craving a smoothie, make your own at home so you can control what goes into it.

You’re Taking Extremes to Lose Weight

In order to get the “beach-body” meany people start restricting their diets which can actually lead to binging and gaining weight when the diet becomes too hard to follow. Instead, focus on moderation and portion size and you can still enjoy your favorite foods.

Exercising to Burn Calories

Have you ever had a really tough workout at the gym to prepare for a big meal you’re about to eat like a 4th of July barbecue or Thanksgiving dinner? Focus on how exercising makes you feel instead of the calories you need to burn.