(BPT) – Summer is an amazing time to enjoy new activities, such as traveling to unfamiliar destinations or exploring a new outdoor hobby. Luckily, fueling up for your summer fun doesn’t need to work against your nutritional goals. Nutritional experts advise sticking to a few simple strategies to guide your eating plans, so you feel your best no matter what summer adventure awaits.
“Enjoying the best of summer shouldn’t include stress about what you should and shouldn’t eat,” emphasizes Colette Heimowitz, Vice President of Nutrition & Education at Simply Good Foods. “A bit of advance planning can help you enjoy every moment and flavor of summer so you can feel energized all day long.”
Heimowitz shares her top four tips for smart snacking this summer:
Relax the rules on the road
Part of the fun of summer traveling is enjoying delicious regional food once you reach your destination, so try to relax and make new food memories on vacation. You can stay on track by upping your daily activity level while you’re vacationing to make up for those extra calories, and make sure you pack low-carb snacks to have on hand throughout the day. Look for low-sugar snacks that are high in protein, fiber and healthy fats to keep your energy high and your hunger satisfied.
Fuel up with protein-rich foods
Fuel up for outdoor adventures like hiking, sightseeing and bike riding with easy-to-carry, low-carb foods that will sustain your energy through a long day of exercise. Pack homemade trail mix, a protein shake or a high-protein sandwich of chicken breast, with lycopene-rich tomatoes (a powerful antioxidant) on fiber-rich whole-grain bread or a lettuce wrap.
Pick your treats wisely
Food should nourish you and also be something you enjoy. When you’re looking for a cool indulgence while fighting the summer heat, try a portion-controlled treat like Atkins Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint Patties, which have less carbs and sugar than traditional patties, making them a delicious and smart swap. You can store them in the fridge or freezer for a cool, refreshing treat with only 1 gram of sugar or less per serving.
Cut back on carbs
Summer is the time to enjoy fun, entertaining activities with friends and family. If you know you’re not going to be able to resist your friend’s famous potato salad recipe at this weekend’s barbecue or you have been looking forward to snacks at your favorite food truck, cut back on carbs for a few days before. If you’ve been keeping your appetite satisfied with fulfilling low-carb snacks and meals, you may be happy just having a few bites of the much-anticipated dish.
According to Heimowitz, “These simple strategies can transform your outlook this summer so you can enjoy your summer activities without having to stress about food.” For the Atkins Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint Patties and more low-carb nutrition ideas, visit Atkins.com.