Summer has arrived, and with it, the desire for fresh and light meals that bring us freshness and vitality. No more heavy and rich dishes, make way for colorful salads, crunchy raw vegetables, tasty grills and delicate fish!
THE ESSENTIAL
- Light, fresh foods are generally easier to digest than foods high in fat and sugar. This allows your digestive system to rest and not be overloaded during the summer heat.
- Eating light, easily digestible foods also helps you feel lighter and less tired.
- Raw vegetables, mixed salads, seasonal fruits and vegetables, lean fish… Take care of your health by treating yourself!
In summer, our body’s needs change! We must therefore adapt our diet…
Why choose light and fresh foods in summer?
- Ease of digestion: Light, fresh foods are generally easier to digest than foods high in fat and sugar. This allows your digestive system to rest and not be overloaded during the summer heat.
- Feeling of freshness: Fresh fruits and vegetables, rich in water, provide a welcome feeling of freshness and hydration on hot days.
- Vitamin and mineral intake: Fresh foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are rich in essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to strengthen your immune system and protect your health.
- Fight fatigue: Eating light, easily digestible foods helps you feel lighter and less tired, which is especially important during periods of intense heat.
- Promote good sleep: A light and digestible meal in the evening promotes better sleep, essential for resting and recharging your batteries for the following day.
What foods should you eat in summer?
- Mixed salads: Vary the pleasures by creating colorful and tasty salads with green leaves, raw or cooked vegetables, fruits, legumes, hard-boiled eggs, fresh cheese… The possibilities are endless!
- Raw vegetables: Enjoy seasonal vegetables to nibble on, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, radishes, peppers… You can enjoy them plain, with a light vinaigrette or a yogurt sauce.
- Grilled: Opt for lean grilled meats, such as chicken, turkey, fish or prawns. Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Lean fish: White fish, such as cod, pollack, sole or salmon, are excellent for your health and are easily digested. You can cook them in the oven, steamed or en papillote.
- Seasonal fruits and vegetables: Enjoy fresh, sun-drenched seasonal fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, melon, peaches, nectarines, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant… Stock up on vitamins and flavors!
Tips for light and tasty meals when it’s hot
- Season your dishes with fresh herbs and spices. This will allow you to enhance the flavors of your dishes without adding fat or sugar.
- Use quality vegetable oils, such as olive oil or canola oil. Favor steaming, baking or barbecuing to limit fat.
- Prepare your meals in advance. This will save you time and prevent you from giving in to the temptation of processed or fast food.
- Have picnics with family or friends. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the sun and share a light and friendly meal.
- Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
In conclusion, eating light and fresh foods in summer is a great way to take care of your health and well-being while fully enjoying the pleasures of the season.
Don’t hesitate to vary the recipes and explore new flavors for tasty and digestible meals!