With the recent start of the summer solstice come yummy foods that are hard to differentiate between healthful and not so much for your bikini bod. Here’s to looking your best all summer long with these best and worst foods to keep watch on.
Best Foods
Leafy Greens
Everyone knows that greens are good for you, however: “Not only are leafy greens a great way to add volume to your meals without the calories, but they are chock full of nutrients (vitamins A, C, K, folate, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and fiber) and easy to incorporate into your day,” says Mary Dinehart-Perry, a registered dietitian and clinical trials director for Zone Labs, Inc.
Tip: The darker the greens, the better! Swap out iceberg for spinach and pile up the veggies.
Salmon
Salmon is naturally low in calories, saturated fat, and sodium and a good source of protein. However, the key ingredient is the omega-3 fatty acid that reaps a ton of anti-inflammatory benefits.
Quinoa
A healthier alternative to rice or pasta, quinoa is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, as well as loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
Apples
Chock full of enzymes that aid in the digestive process of breaking down and eliminating fatty deposits in cells, apples can potentially help reduce cellulite!
Worst Foods
Sushi
Although all sushi may seem like a good, low-cal meal choice, it may not be! Opt for simple rolls and steer clear of deep-fried rolls and ones covered in sauce, while swapping brown rice instead of white.
Pre-made Smoothies
Don’t be fooled by what seems to be a glass full of Vitamin C and antioxidant-inundating fruits to be slurped up! With some pre-made versions boasting up to 600 to 1,000 in one glass, the calorie and sugar content is off the charts.
Frozen Pizza
Though another obvious one, did you know that frozen pizzas are loaded with sodium and preservatives? With most being made with bleached white flour, your body automatically converts this starch into sugar.
Tip: Try making your own whole-wheat crust pizza yourself. Pile on the veggies!
Ice Cream
Just a friendly reminder, that no matter how “healthy” ice cream brands seem to claim, the classic summer treat can easily rack up your daily totals by comprising up to 300 calories, or one third of your daily-recommended fat intake, half your saturated fat and one third of daily cholesterol.
Source: Shape Magazine
