INDIANAPOLIS — Summer is the perfect season to spend time outdoors, but health experts say it’s also a great time to focus on your health. With summer in full swing, experts at Hancock Health are looking at ways to take advantage of the summer season in your diet, too.
Warm weather allows people to get outside and do things they can’t do any other time of the year. It also allows people to eat things they can’t get during the colder months. Experts say it’s the perfect time to add nutrients to your diet with farmers markets, fresh vegetables, and seasonal foods.
“Chase the rainbow by putting a variety of foods on your plate and including lots of colors, lots of fruits, vegetables and proteins,” says Amanda Rummler of Hancock Health. “Just having those things on your plate will add variety to your diet overall.”
If you can’t get to a farm stand, Rummler says “shopping the perimeter” of your grocery store is a good way to find fresh, nutritious options, since the “middle aisle” often contains the most processed foods.
Another great way to do this is to take advantage of nice weather and do some extra activities that still give you all the benefits of exercise but don’t feel like you’re working out, Ramler adds.
“Getting outside also allows for social connection with the whole family,” Ramler says. “It’s not as stressful as going to the gym and working out for 30 minutes. Even just connecting with family, going to the pool for 30 minutes, or going to the park and getting some sun or just having fun can be a great way to add to that activity.”
If you’re looking for ideas to kickstart your summer meal planning, Rummler believes consulting a Hancock dietitian is always a good option. You can find more information about Hancock dietitians here.
