Top 10 list of summer weight sabotages- Part 2

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Are you surprised by waist management struggles at this time of year, the season when it seems like healthy eating should come easy?  In my last post, I pointed out  five of my top 10 possible explanations for summer weight gain.
Here are the last five.

•    Social events
It’s the time of year for entertaining and being entertained.  And unlike in the winter, catching up with friends happens right through the week.  In January, for example, at 7 pm, you may be wondering how you’re going to stay awake. In the summer, at that time, your evening’s activities haven’t even begun!  And as they likely will involve food and drink, recognize how often it’s happening and pace yourself.

•    Frozen and iced coffee drinks
These popular beverages may seem just a little richer than a cooling iced latte made with low fat milk.  But at 500 calories a pop for some offerings   topped with whipped cream, the caloric totals can surpass those you might consume at a meal. If you really want a frozen decadent delight, then it might be wise to check out the various serving sizes. Why not have a smaller one and  savor it instead of an oversized calorie laden one?

•    Ice cream
This summertime favourite has been transformed over the years from a scoop containing moderate amounts of fat to la crème de la crème varieties packed into large waffle cones that could feed a family of four. The same goes for some ice cream novelties that are akin to butter and sugar on a stick.  Sometimes a little will go a long way.

Having a scoop on an old fashioned cake cone, which supplies a mere 20 calories or so, instead of in a cup (or a dish at home), allows you easier portion control –  you can lick the ice cream instead of eating it in a flash with a spoon.

•    Swimming
With the popularity of backyard and community pools along with cottages on lakes, swimming has never been more popular. It is indeed a great way to balance your summertime eats with exercise.  But there are a few things to keep in mind.  If you’re hitting some tennis balls or running in the heat, your appetite may be diminished right after. Just think about it- you likely need a little time to cool down before eating.

Swimming is a different story.  If the water’s cold, appetites can be revved.  Picture  having a swim in a lake. You get out and likely think “where’s the BBQ”.  If you find that this is the case, go for lots of low-cal fillers as an appetite- taming measure.

•    Beer
While drinking beer on a hot day is not a new activity, it’s the amounts consumed that may affect health. Research shows that in excess, the beverage may really contribute to a beer belly and it’s this location where fat ups disease risks.

As alcohol is dehydrating and therefore promotes even more drinking, try to have an alcohol and  calorie-free beverage in between each alcohol-containing one. It will help you to pace yourself.
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What are your healthy eating challenges during the summer? Please share in the comment section below.