Fight the Summer Fatigue

Temps being at their highest can sometimes leave our energy levels at their lowest. The long summer days may disrupt our sleep schedules, leaving us feeling lethargic and in need of a nap. This overall drop in energy can contribute to reduced productivity at work, diminished motivation, and even mood imbalances.

Let’s take a closer look at what foods to incorporate and which ones to avoid in order to maintain optimal energy and focus.

Processed foods: Let’s be honest, most processed “food” that you find on the shelf isn’t real food. It’s no wonder that you don’t feel satiated after eating a bag of chips, washed down with a can of soda. To keep yourself energized, aim to get as much color on your plate as possible. Check your local market to see what produce is in season, which not only tastes the best, it also saves you money.

Alcohol: I’m not saying you have to quit drinking for the entire summer season. Rather, be mindful that alcohol is dehydrating and will leave you feeling even more depleted during the hottest months. If you plan to partake in consumption, try to drink water or some other non-alcoholic beverage in between alcoholic drinks to help prevent extreme dehydration and heat exhaustion. As always, I recommend keeping a reusable water bottle on hand at all times.

Hydrating foods: Drinking water is crucial for our health, no matter what time of the year it is. But, it can be extra beneficial to incorporate water-dense foods, which also contain tons of vitamins and minerals. Some of my favorite hydrating foods include watermelon, cucumbers, berries, citrus fruits, and bell peppers.

Make it yourself: One of the downsides to eating out at restaurants or ordering take-out is the abundance of sodium in the food. Salt adds flavor and is a key mineral for our health, but it's easy to overindulge when you aren't in control of what is going into your meals. By eating at home a few nights a week, you can be in the driver's seat when it comes to your sodium intake, which will help prevent dehydration, bloat, and fatigue.

Take advantage of the warmer months by enjoying local, fresh foods that will boost your nutrition and fight the summer heat waves.