Now that spring break is over we are all counting down the days till summer vacation. Which means we cannot stop going to the gym just yet. For those of you looking to jump-start your summer diet or even cleanse your system, here are some health tips for starting your summer cleanses, diets and most importantly being able to maintain them. Overall, incorporating more raw foods (vegetables, fruits, nuts, etc) will invigorate your mind, body and soul. Not only will you feel healthier but your body will be stronger and more fit. Here are some simple steps to getting your body in the best shape for summer.
(1.) Leave out processed foods, eat more raw foods
Raw foods is referring to fresh, whole, unrefined plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, which are ingested in their natural state without being cooked. Stay away from processed foods like packaged meats, sodas, all junk foods, frozen dinners, cereals, frozen veggie burgers, cheese, breads and any dressings.
(2.) Find alternative recipes for your favorite foods
I am a cheese connoisseur. I love to have it on almost everything I eat. Healthy? No. Tasty? Yes. If you have a favorite food that is not so healthy try finding recipes for alternative ingredients so you can still get that taste you crave. If you love barbecue sauce, ditch the store bought brand and find a recipe using fresh spices, tomatoes, maple syrup and olive oil. Though we are busy college students, we should not abuse our bodies by putting toxic ingredients into them.
(3.) Feel the burn
Some people think that walking on a tread mill for a half hour will get them results. Mostly likely, it will not. Though walking has many great benefits, if you are looking to sculpt and tone your body you must be breaking a sweat. Recently, I have been on a strict workout schedule that incorporates cardio, lifting and toning of the abs, butt and thighs. Many women neglect to use weights in their work out routine because they are afraid of getting “buff.” Well, have no fear, I’m here to tell you that lifting a few pounds will not make you look like Hulk Hogan, if anything you will be well on your way to having fabulous arms like Jennifer Aniston. The point is to always incorporate variety in your work out routine and if it you don’t “feel the burn,” you won’t see results.
(4.) Water is your new best friend!
I once read that in order to maintain a healthy diet, one should drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Why drink water and not juice or soda? Is it not obvious? Many sodas and juices are packed with sugar, artificial flavors and corn syrup. Raw juices are a great alternative because you are gaining the nutrients but it is still imperative to stay hydrated with water. 60% of the human body is made up of water so staying hydrated is great for subsiding hunger cravings and it keeps your complexion clear (which is a plus).