By It is that time of year again when we begin to look forward to our summer break. We dream of blue seas and golden sands while in a desperate attempt to get our bodies in shape.
Suddenly we are all going to the gym before work and spending our lunch breaks googling some information regarding the bikini body guide.
But don’t despair, because with a few easy changes to your diet such as adding more hormone balancing foods and you will be ready to hit the beach in no time.
Be an early bird
Studies have shown that people who consume larger meals earlier in the day lose more weight than those who have their main meal at night. Try to have the majority of your calories before 3 pm, keep dinners light, and don’t take lunch too late, it will leave you playing catch up after dark.
Ditch the caffeine
One sure fire way to get beach body ready this season is to ditch the caffeine from your diet. That morning Americano or double espresso can leave you feeling bloated, and a regular take away latte or cappuccino can pack as many calories as a slice of chocolate cake. Try starting your day with some hot water with a slice of lemon to get you motivated. If you simply can’t go without your morning coffee, then choose a decaffeinated option from home. You will not only cut calories but save money too.
Start juicing
If you like to sip something a little bit more exciting than water throughout the day, then get juicing. You can create tasty, nutritious drinks which will keep you hydrated, boost your vitamin levels and satisfy your sweet tooth as well.
Dress to Impress
You may think that you are eating healthily when you choose a salad from the menu but remember that oily vinaigrettes and creamy dressings are high in calories and can at least triple the total amount that you are consuming. Ditch them in favour of low-fat options and ask that they are served separately on the side so that you can regulate your intake.
Keep Hydrated
We all know the benefits of drinking plenty of water each day to stay healthy and hydrated. Try drinking a couple of glasses before each meal to reduce hunger pangs resulting in you eating less and staying hydrated to boot.
Make your own
Nipping out of the office for lunch usually results in us consuming much more calories than if we prepared lunch at home. Shop bought sandwiches are frequently high in hidden calories so try to make your favourite at home instead and bring it with you.
Finally, once you have started your vacation, you will probably want to let your hair down and have a few drinks. Choose your tipple carefully and go for a low-calorie option. Sugary alcoholic cocktails can contain as many as 500 calories each so why not go for a spirit such as vodka with a squeeze of citrus fruit and a splash of slimline mixer instead. Delicious, refreshing and around one fifth of the calories of a Margherita.
