For health-conscious individuals, especially those in Denver weight loss programs, summer can feel overwhelming regarding nutrition planning. Traveling and being generally busy make it harder to eat healthily. Still, if you follow these ten tips, you’ll be able to take advantage of a healthy summer without missing any of the season’s activities.

#1- Whole Grains for Energy

Contrary to popular belief, not all carbs are off-limits when trying to eat healthily. Whole grains are composed of complex carbohydrates and provide a good source of fiber, iron, and folate.

#2- Eat Lean Proteins

When eating meat and other protein-rich foods, try to choose leaner products like turkey or chicken breast rather than fatty red meat. If you don’t eat meat, nutritionists in Denver recommend adding protein to your diet through beans, peas, nuts, and eggs.

#3- Watch the Sodium

Not only does excessive salt intake dehydrate the body, but it’s also not good for the heart. Too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Don’t eliminate salt from your diet completely, but try to cut back on it.

#4- Swap to Natural Sugars

Fruit is a good source of natural sugars, nutrients, and a little more hydration. While fruit is much healthier than processed snacks, it’s also important to be aware of how much fruit you’re eating as the sugars still add up.

#5- Fresh Food Whenever Possible

Eat food that’s fresh rather than processed and packaged whenever possible. Eating fresh food will provide you with better nutrition than processed food, without all the preservatives and additives (like sugar and salt).

#6- Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water during the summer months. Warm weather is particularly dehydrating as the body uses much of its water supply to stay cool when heat exposure. Make sure you’re frequently drinking, and watch out for the signs of dehydration.

#7- Eat Fish or Shellfish

Nutrition programs in Colorado often suggest eating eight ounces of fish or shellfish each week as seafood is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.

#8- Portion Control

If you’re participating in a Denver weight loss program, you’ll likely find that portion control is a key element of weight loss and healthy eating. Even sweet or salty snacks are okay in small portions on occasion. Simply be mindful of how much food you’re eating this summer.

#9- Have A Dietary Travel Plan

For individuals who plan on traveling to new destinations this summer, it’s a good idea to research the different eateries in the area you’ll be vacationing. Doing so before you leave will help you plan what and where you will eat while you’re out.

#10- Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol is a dehydrating substance, and additionally, it’s composed of relatively empty calories. Avoid drinking if you’re trying to lose weight to prevent the need to work off calories that did not contribute to your overall well-being.

Trying to lose weight through healthy eating can be hard when you just want to enjoy your summer, but if you stick to a nutritional plan and avoid processed foods, excessive salt or sugar, and alcohol, you’ll find the weight loss a little easier.