Summer is almost here and it is time to shift from bulky cool-weather clothes to light-weight warm weather clothes. It can be easy to overlook an extra inch here or there when it is masked by sweaters. Now those extra inches are more visible as we put on shorts, capris, form-fitting shirts, and fun summer dresses. What to do? It is time for a spring healthy eating inventory.
The first step in a healthy eating inventory is to evaluate where you are. As the seasons change is a great time to go through the pantry and see what winter comfort foods have taken up residence. We tend to turn to heavier foods when the temperature is cooler – but those heavier foods can lead to extra pounds and inches if we are not paying attention. Identify what needs to be cleaned out so it is no longer tempting.
Once we have evaluated where we are, then we need to determine where we want to be. Our healthy eating inventory should identify what supplemental items will be used in lighter summer meals. I find that my pantry has significantly fewer cans during the warmer months because a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables are available. So my refrigerator becomes more full of fresh foods – from both the grocery store and the garden. My pantry contains ingredients that go into salads and light side dishes.
Once we have determined what healthy foods to have on hand, then we need to look at how those foods are prepared. The next part of our healthy eating inventory evaluates recipes and how foods will be cooked. Warmer weather brings more grilled lean meats and vegetables to our house and a variety of fresh salads for light meals. Light meals help us stay more energetic for outdoor activities. The combination of lighter meals and more activity will help those summer clothes fit more comfortably in no time.
The final piece of any healthy eating inventory is exercise because our bodies are designed to move. We lose weight by burning more calories than we consume. Our muscles and bones need to be stretched and used to stay strong. Our brain needs activity to stay sharp. So pick a couple of warm weather activities to keep you moving through the summer and add those to your inventory.
All inventories include a review and feedback loop. Come back and check your healthy eating inventory every week. See what is working and what isn’t and tweak as needed. This review process will keep you on track as you enjoy the healthy spring and summer you have planned.
What is on your healthy eating inventory this spring? Would love to hear your comments below.
