Summer Clean Eating: Embrace the Season with Fresh, Hydrating, and Soul-Nourishing Foods

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, the summer invites us to take advantage of the change in energy. I don’t know about you but for me, it's the perfect time to refresh my eating habits and nourish my body. Summer clean eating isn't just about shedding winter weight; it's about revitalizing our mind, body, and soul. Let’s dig into some hydrating foods, enjoy the freshest seasonal produce, and feed our souls with delicious, wholesome meals. Here's how you can make the most of June's offerings:

Hydrating Foods to Beat the Summer Heat

Staying hydrated is crucial during the hot summer months. While drinking plenty of water is essential, incorporating hydrating foods into your diet can give you an extra boost. This is the time of year when all those tropical fruits are valuable and important! Here are the No Shoes Nutrition top rated hydrating foods to include in your summer clean eating plan:

1. Watermelon: With its high water content and refreshing sweetness, watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit. It's perfect for a hydrating snack or as a base for a cooling smoothie. I love to cut this melon into popsicle-sized chunks, add a stick, freeze, and enjoy on the hottest of days!

2. Cucumber: Another hydration hero, cucumbers are not only low in calories but also incredibly versatile. Add them to salads or sandwiches, or enjoy them sliced with a sprinkle of salt and a splash of lemon juice. Cucumbers are what I call “free foods,” as you can eat all you want, enjoy the crunch, and cool without worrying about overindulging!

3. Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are packed with vitamin C and water. Citrus fruits make great additions to your water, salads, and even grilled dishes. Infusing water with citrus fruits will help get the entire family drinking more fluids on hot days!

4. Strawberries: These juicy berries are bursting with flavor and hydration. Enjoy them on their own, in fruit salads, or blended into smoothies for a refreshing treat. I do recommend that you reach for organic strawberries to avoid the sprays and chemicals!

Freshest Foods of the Season

Summer brings abundance when it comes to fresh produce, especially in Canada, where we have long winters without much growing. Embrace the season's offerings to maximize the nutritional benefits and enjoy the best flavors. Here are some of the freshest foods to seek out this summer:

1. Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are at their peak in June. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. Add them to your breakfast yogurt, salads, or enjoy as a snack. Berries are a great source of healthy fiber with a sweetness that isn’t too high on the glycemic load. Even those with blood sugar imbalances can enjoy the best berries of the season without worry!

2. Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and arugula thrive in the summer. These greens are nutrient-dense and perfect for salads, smoothies, and as a side dish. In my opinion, you can never eat too many greens because when you’re green inside, you’re clean inside!

3. Tomatoes: Vine-ripened tomatoes are a summer staple. Their juicy, sweet flavor is unbeatable. Use them in salads, sauces, or simply sliced with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. To get some variety, consider making some salsas and tomato based dips!

4. Zucchini: This versatile vegetable is abundant in summer. Grill it, spiralize it into noodles, or bake it into healthy muffins and bread. If you are curious about what else you can do with zucchinis, reach out, and I will send you some recipes!

Foods that Feed the Summer Soul

I feel like I am trying to get so much information into this blog! Summer foods are so exciting and delicious. I just hope you take advantage of the short window to get out to the farmer’s market and take advantage of the local produce! Summer is supposed to be a time for relaxation, outdoor activities, and enjoying meals with loved ones. Nourish your soul with foods that bring joy and satisfaction while supporting your health goals

1. Grilled Veggies: If you don’t love your veggies raw, then you can take advantage of the warm weather and fire up the grill. Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus are delicious and easy to prepare. The smoky flavor enhances their natural sweetness.

2. Fresh Salads: Experiment with different salad combinations using the freshest ingredients. Think beyond lettuce—add grains like quinoa, nuts, seeds, and a variety of colorful veggies for a hearty and satisfying meal.

3. Herb-Infused Water: We talked about adding citrus to your water, but you can also stay hydrated by adding fresh herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary to your water. It's a simple way to elevate your hydration game and enjoy subtle, refreshing flavors.

4. Light and Refreshing Desserts: Enjoy the natural sweetness of summer fruits with light desserts. A simple fruit salad, yogurt parfait, or chia seed pudding with fresh berries can be both satisfying and nutritious.

Summer is the perfect season to embrace clean eating. By focusing on hydrating foods, the freshest seasonal produce, and meals that feed your soul, you can enhance your health and enjoy the vibrant energy of the season. Make the most of what summer has to offer and nourish your body and mind with delicious, wholesome foods.

Remember, clean eating isn't about restriction; it's about choosing foods that make you feel your best. Here's to a summer filled with health, happiness, and delicious meals!

References

1. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2023). "Summer Eating: The Benefits of Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables."

2. Mayo Clinic. (2023). "Hydration: Why It’s So Important."

3. American Heart Association. (2023). "Eating Smart: Fresh, Flavorful and Healthy Foods for Summer."

Ready to dive into more summer clean eating tips? Visit our website at www.noshoesnutrition.com and schedule your complimentary consultation today!