In the summer, many people want to look good and feel healthy. The proven way to promote a healthy summer is through exercise and good nutrition, but it can be difficult to know exactly which tips to follow. Luckily, the team with IMUA Orthopedics, Sports & Health have been providing wellness coaching and an array of services to the citizens of Honolulu, HI, and they have compiled five tips you can follow at any age to make this summer your healthiest one yet.

5 Nutrition Tips for a Healthy Summer

1. Meal Prep 

For many families, summer is an insanely busy season, so it can be easy to fall into a habit of unhealthy processed foods or restaurant take-out. One way to combat this routine is by meal prepping, which allows for quick, healthy dinners throughout the week. The same idea applies if you’re traveling. Pack a cooler to avoid the roadside temptations. 

2. Eat More Berries

Many fruits, including berries, reach peak ripeness in the summer months. By increasing your berry intake, you are filling your body with beneficial antioxidants that protect the immune system, improve skin, and reduce the risk of future sicknesses.

3. Drink Less Alcohol 

Even though summer can be a time of parties with friends and alcoholic beverages, you must be careful not to drink too much. Because alcohol is a diuretic — meaning it causes you to lose water quickly — it increases your risk of dehydration.

4. Drink More Water

Alcohol intake aside, you can expend more energy and fluids than normal doing typical activities in the heat of summer months, so it’s important to drink enough water. You don’t necessarily need to count every ounce, but listen to your body and drink when you feel thirsty.  

5. Grill More Protein

The summer months are the perfect time to get outside as much as possible. Use this to your advantage and improve your nutrition through increasing the amount of grilled protein in your diet. Rather than an oven dish with butter, use light olive oil on the grill for a low calorie, low fat feast.

Whether you’re looking for an orthopedic surgeon or nutrition advice, you can trust the team at IMUA Orthopedics, Sports & Health to meet your needs this summer. Reach out to them online or give them a call at (808) 521-8170.