We all want to get the most out of summertime, which often means packing the warm months with get-togethers, barbecues, road trips, beach days, and even weddings! The problem is that, with all these joyful events, it can be difficult to keep our diets clean.
With a little planning, it’s easy to eat well and make the most of summer social events. Don’t forget the Five P’s: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance!
Here are recommendations on how to enjoy a summer gathering without piling on excess calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats:
If you’re hosting the party, choose to serve quality leaner cuts of grass-fed red meat, organic chicken, wild fish, and other seafood.
If you’re attending a party and not sure if the host relies on high-quality animal products, then try sticking with the vegetarian options. It’s always nice to bring a fresh salad or vegetable-based snacks, so offer to bring one and you’ll be able to add a variety of fruits and vegetables, making it not only nutrient-dense but beautiful too. A colourful plate is a healthy plate!
While it’s best to avoid excess sugar, summer is also a time to have fun, so we don’t want to feel like we’re constantly depriving ourselves of sweet treats. My philosophy is the following: if we’re going to enjoy sugar, it should at least come alongside solid nutrition.
Some of the healthiest foods that can also satisfy a sugar craving are squash and root vegetables, including carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins A, C, E, B6 and are high in potassium, folic acid, and fiber. They’re also an easy addition to any summer barbecue in the form of sweet potato fries! There are plenty of easy recipes online, so find one that speaks to you and give them a try! They’re sure to please both adults and kids!
If you’re looking to add more sweet potato to your diet, breakfast might be an unexpected but great place to start. I have recently been making a sweet potato porridge bowl for breakfast and absolutely love it because it’s both delicious and nutritious. It keeps me full and energized for hours and has been a key source of nutrition while I train for a full marathon! If you would like to try it for yourself, here is the recipe I follow:
4 sweet potatoes
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp cinnamon
Dash nutmeg
Pinch of salt
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Use a fork to poke holes into the sweet potatoes, set them on the baking sheet, and roast for 40 to 50 minutes, or until puffed up and soft inside when pierced with a fork.
Once cooled peel and mash with desired milk. I use coconut, oat or Macadamia.
Add vanilla cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
This is your porridge base.
I like to have fun with toppings. You can add peanut butter, bananas, berries, or even dark chocolate shavings! Really anything goes so I encourage you to explore what works for you!
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