If you find it difficult to go jogging or running due to the heat then think about an early morning run. The air is fresher, cooler and the streets are more peaceful making your run more enjoyable.
If you usually work out in the gym, try some outdoor activities like cycling, outdoor swimming, tennis or find out if there are any classes at your local park. Keep hydrated by keeping a bottle of water close by. The increase in temperature means that you’re likely to sweat more than usual so you need to drink more to replace the fluid loss. This may sound like common sense but it’s not common practice.
When the sun's out the beer gardens are abuzz and after work drinks are in full swing. As you may know alcohol is dehydrating so it’s even more important to keep hydrated (with water).
Eat what’s in season as it’s likely to be at its best. Some examples are strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, plums, runner beans, carrots, broccoli, new potatoes, courgettes, rocket and radish.
What do you do with these seasonal goods? Eat them of course, add fruit to your breakfast, enjoy as a mid afternoon snack or show off in the office with a fruit salad. Bulk up your dishes with vegetables (add chopped courgettes to lasagne or Shepherd’s pie), add grated carrots to your salad (or even rice dishes) or try garnishing your pizza with rocket. The key is to be creative with your food and not to over think it and don’t forget it’s a great way to pack in your 5 a day.
Onto one of my favourite bits of summer, the amazing barbeque. If you want to watch your weight but still want some tasty BBQ food try getting a whole fish like halibut, snapper or sea bass. Get the fishmonger to descale and gut it. To prepare stuff with sliced lemon, dil, other fresh herbs and wrap up in foil. Pop it on the Barbie for 5-7 minutes each side (depending on size, ask for fishmonger for advice). Other options could be chicken breasts instead of lamb chops and vegetables kebabs (pieces of peppers, onions, mushrooms on a skewer) they char wonderfully.
Finally make sure you leave time for yourself to unwind. Sometimes summer can be a stressful time as it seems like everyone is having fun and relaxing but you, something as simple as a walk in the park can reenergise you, so go out and be at one with nature.
Please feel free to add any other tips you think will be useful for a healthy summer.
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