Summer screams bbq, chips, ice cream, pies, and popsicles, but the refined carbs, saturated fats, processed sugars, and artificial ingredients can dampen the love of such comfort foods and cause everything from gastrointestinal and mood issues to sleep disruption and lowered immunity.
And who wants that to deal with over the summer?
This year, don’t stress about forgoing your seasonal favorites, just consider tweaking them for a healthier version when needed.
Need some ideas on how to do that? Here are some to get you started!
Grilling
Select low fat lean protein instead of those with highly saturated fat and opt for ones that offer additional nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, minerals (such as iron), and vitamins.
Sides
Move over salads slathered in mayo! Use side dishes for vitamin, antioxidant, and fiber nutrition with plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Summer Peach Salad with Quinoa and Arugula
Desserts
Sugar is a hard one to pass up in summer, so limiting it may be a more feasible option when it comes to dessert. In addition, consider balancing sugary foods with protein.
Healthy Homemade Popsicles with Real Fruit
Drinks
Natural, low-sugar drinks can provide hydration and flavor!
Strawberry Orange Mango Kombucha Mocktails
Low Sugar Strawberry Lemon Spritzer
From backyard barbecue to park picnic to mid-week meals, have fun with your menu this summer. And remember…you can still enjoy delectable comfort food with healthy twists!
For naturopathic mental health care and counseling this summer, please call our office at (303) 688-6698 or click here to schedule an appointment.
The CNMA office provides naturopathic care, testing, massage, and holistic counseling to those in Castle Rock, Castle Pines, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Centennial, Parker, Larkspur, Monument, Colorado Springs, and the greater Denver metro area. For those outside of these areas, virtual appointments are available.
*CNMA does not endorse any company, website, or recipe. Information is for inspirational purposes only.
REFERENCES
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-that-weaken-immune-system#1.-Added-sugar
https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/nutrition.htm
https://www.thensf.org/the-link-between-nutrition-and-sleep/
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