How to Stay on Track During the Summer + Sparkling Cocktail Recipe

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Enjoy yourself.

Do NOT plan on going on a super strict ‘diet’ in July or August, especially if you have holidays planned– this just feeds into the eliminate then binge or the ‘all or nothing’ mentality as you anticipate the end of summer when you plan to go back to a restricted way of eating. Allow yourself to indulge in quality rather than quantity, without guilt. Appreciate the smell, taste, and experience of eating delicious food. Take the time to chew your food ~ 30x before you swallow. Put the fork down in between bites and savour every bite.

Focus on maintenance.

Adjust your routine as needed, but focus on the healthy habits you already have in place. When we get in the habit of constantly losing, then regaining that 10 pounds, we get stuck in a perpetual yo-yo dieting cycle that ultimately leads to a slowed metabolism and low self-worth. Instead, incorporate fun healthy foods, take daily walks, include physical activities to your vacation like paddle boarding, yoga on the beach, or a beautiful hike.

Never skip breakfast.

If you focus on one thing, make it a solid morning routine. Breakfast wakes up your metabolism and decreases your chances of overeating and cravings later in the day. We tend to need less calories in the evening so eat biggest meals during the day, smaller meals in the evening, and try to avoid eating a few hours before bed so you get a better rest.

Drink wisely.

Choose lower sugar drinks made with real fruit, soda water, and healthier alternatives to regular pop or tonic water. Add some antioxidants to your drinks, which help to repair the damage caused by alcohol. For example, add raspberries or herbs like rosemary to your cocktail or split your wine with kombucha. Choose higher anti-oxidant and dry wine – like pinot noir and choose organic and natural wines when possible. These contain less pesticides and sulfur, which will help to reduce symptoms of a hangover, like fatigue, nausea, and headaches. Ping pong your drinks – one water, one drink! And try taking an activate B Complex + vitamin C + electrolytes after your drinks to help your body detoxify!

Here is a delicious antioxidant filled drink recipe to try. (Tag me on Insta at @annaliisakapp to share your drink!)