It seems like there’s no better time than summer to pull out the natural bloating remedies. It’s a natural byproduct of all the sugary treats, fizzy cocktails and salty snacks that accompany these events. But that doesn’t mean it’s inevitable!
It’s actually super easy to stay sexy, healthy—and keep the good party vibes going.
Check out these common summertime scenarios and my tips to ensure that the only thing inflated this summer is the pool rafts! 😉 It’s The Plante Life Guide to a Bloat-Free Summer!
Beach Day with the Girls
Let’s get real; the beach is the last place you want to feel bloated. So start your day right by avoiding a super filling breakfast – no pancakes, pastries or Frappuccinos. Instead, plan a spread with water-dense foods to keep your bod hydrated, like a fruit salad filled with watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, grapefruit and berries (which contain lots of antioxidants).
Pineapple is another great choice because it’s packed with bromelain, which aids digestion and reduces inflammation. If you’re heading out early, and need a quick breakfast, make a green smoothie.
Avoid the processed, fried and sugary treats at the local snack shack on the shore. I know that ice cream seems like the perfect treat to cool you off, but in fact, dairy can lead to gas, bloating and that uncomfortable, puffed up feeling. If you’re going to drink by the water, go for clear alcohol over beer. I enjoy a light tequila and lime with sparkling water. Simple and refreshing.
Backyard Barbecue & BFF’s
Summer isn’t summer without the classic cookout. Of course, the bbq classics are all on hand—hot dogs, hamburgers, potato chips, macaroni salad and soda—but all of these heavy items slow down your digestive system and leave you dragging yourself to the nearest hammock for a nap.
It’s best to steer clear of dishes made with mayo and heavy dressings like potato or macaroni salad. Skip the buns and make a lettuce wrap instead. Even better, offer to bring veggie burgers; there are some natural and delicious options available. Top it with foods that aid in digestion like sauerkraut, or kimchi if you’re looking for a little kick. And hit up the veggie tray with more of those water-dense foods: cucumbers, cauliflower, broccoli, and baby carrots.
Wedding Wonderland
Ah, summer lovin’ and an open bar. 😉 Outdoor weddings are so beautiful, but with the extra heat, you want to be careful about what to choose in the buffet line. Ditch the fried foods and (sadly) the cheese. Also, avoid sparkling wines as the fizz comes from the release of carbon dioxide… which then goes into your stomach. This includes prosecco, ladies, which is also bad for your pearly whites: “the combination of carbonic acid, sugar and alcohol present in the drink could do damage to your teeth if drunk in sufficient amounts.”
Here are a few low sugar cocktail recipes to try out at the next soirée to toast the happy couple.
On The Road Again…
Just like you plan your route to work ahead of time, plan to bring healthy snacks on your next road trip. This way you won’t be tempted to indulge in gas station snacks like chips and candy bars and drive thru fast food. Plus, driving with an upset tummy is no fun.
Instead of salty trail mix, bring unsalted raw nuts and fresh veggies. It’s easy to put a cooler in the back seat, so make smoothies or chia seed pudding at home and store them in glass jars for when you need a little pick-me-up.
Classic Camping
Just because you’re out of civilization, it’s no reason to eat like an animal. 😉 Pass on the processed foods and instead keep the cooking prep simple for the campfire. Chopped veggies, fresh fish, real eggs (not boxes substitutes) and whole fruit you can cut up as you eat it are great options.
“Hobo meals” are a great option for big groups. Just wrap your veggies and protein with a little olive oil in a foil packet and place it on the hot coals near the edge of your campfire. (P.S. Be sure to make some handles so it’s easy to retrieve it from the fire!) Cook it for 20-30 minutes, or until the protein is done. It’s a fun and easy technique that can be used for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
No matter where you go this summer, now you can bring your healthy habits with you!
Which foods to avoid surprised you the most? What summer scenarios do you have questions about? Let me know in the comments below!
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LOVE + sexy summer tummies!
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