Summer is the time of year known for unhealthy eating. Whether you are headed to a carnival or on vacation, you likely will be tempted to eat various junk foods in the coming months.
So what can you eat if you want to enjoy your summer but still lose weight? We’ve got the answer. Below is a list of some of our favorite foods to enjoy this summer for weight loss.
20 Best Summer Foods for Weight Loss
1. Cherries
These sweet and juicy small fruits are packed with antioxidants that can help you trim the fat!
2. Cucumbers
Packed full of water and inflammation-fighting antioxidants, cucumbers are the perfect crunchy snack for the hot summer months.
3. Ceviche
There’s nothing better than a cool ceviche on a hot summer day. So, skip the fried fish and order its raw counterpart, which contains omega 3’s and antioxidants to help fight inflammation.
4. Salsa
Want to spice up a dish without a sugary sauce? Make some fresh salsa. With antioxidant-rich veggies, this sauce adds flavor without adding tons of calories. And if you want to take it a step further, check out some recipes for some mango salsa or other delicious combinations.
5. Watermelon
A light and juicy watermelon is a picnic favorite and it’s also 90% water, which makes it the perfect treat to indulge in while losing weight.
6. Corn on the Cob
A summer cookout is not quite complete without some sweet corn. Whether you like corn on the cob or kernel corn, this delicious vegetable is packed with fiber, helping to fill you up without filling you out.
7. Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a cold soup that originated in Spain. Loaded with tomatoes and other veggies, this soup has all the ingredients to help you lower your calorie intake while helping you feel full.
8. Blueberries
Blueberries contain tons of vitamins, minerals, and less sugar than other fruits. Add a handful of these to a smoothie or eat them as a snack to enjoy this antioxidant-packed fruit’s benefits.
9. Oysters
Did you know oysters help reduce blood pressure? It’s true! So, stop at a raw bar this summer and consume a few for heart health.
10. Guacamole
Besides just salsa, guacamole is another great way to add to the flavor of a dish while keeping your calories low. The avocados in guacamole are also high in monounsaturated fats and fiber which keep you full longer.
11. Strawberries
Besides just blueberries, you should also add these to your fridge for the summer. Loaded with Vitamin C and B6, they are the perfect healthy snack.
12. Shrimp
Shrimp is one of the best low-calorie proteins, and it can easily be added to a salad or eaten with a side of veggies for a quick lunch.
13. Tomatoes
Even if you don’t want to make salsa, incorporating some tomatoes into a healthy summer salad is a great way to add flavor and vitamins without adding too many calories.
14. Salmon
For the days you don’t want to eat shrimp, salmon is another healthy source of protein, and it is better for your heart health and a great alternative to a burger.
15. Peaches
Common at the end of summer, these plump fruits are an excellent source of Vitamin C and beta-carotene.
16. Hummus
Made of chickpeas and packed with protein, this spread, or dip, is a much healthier alternative to cream cheese or any other dairy-based dip.
17. Artichoke
Want to switch up your diet with something new? Add artichoke, or artichoke hearts to your grocery list. They go great in pasta and dips or plain as a snack.
18. Pomegranate
Pomegranate is loaded with polyphenols which can help shrink fat cells. Adding a scoop of these to your morning yogurt or fruit salad is a great way to sneak in something healthy and delicious.
19. Spinach
For summer salads, switch to using Spinach instead of iceberg lettuce. Loaded with Vitamins A and C, this leafy green also contains plenty of protein to keep you full.
20. Mint Leaves
For a summer beverage, mix sparkling water with some mint leaves. It will help with your seasonal allergies and give flavor to your water without needing to add sugar.
Ready For Your Summer Body?
As you can see, this is quite the list of foods you need to add to your diet this summer. But if you have a busy schedule, it can be challenging to fit all these in.
Here at Farm Fresh Meals, we use all these ingredients in ready-to-eat meals delivered right to your door. View our Menu to purchase meals a la carte, or Subscribe and Save to get healthy summer meals for even less!