The sun is out, and we are ready to be outside! Summer vacation is a time to celebrate and soak up the sun with all the fun activities we can enjoy this season. Because you’ll likely be active outside (or even just catching some rays), it’s important to eat and drink well. Let’s enjoy the warm weather while fueling our bodies the right way!

Here are six tips for eating well on summer vacation.

1. Resist the urge to splurge.

Restaurant patios are calling our names to enjoy food outside! Eating out can be fun, but splurging and overdoing it often happens when we’re eating out. It’s easy to be tempted by large portions or unhealthy drinks, especially when others around us are doing so.

Try to take on a new perspective when you’re eating at a restaurant. You can picture this as a way to fuel your body like every other meal—instead of a special treat. This perspective will allow you to resist the urge to splurge by sharing an entree with friends, ordering half-sized portions, or making a healthy plan before sitting down to eat.

2. Take advantage of the fresh produce.

Strawberries, corn, tomatoes, and other summer crops are popping up everywhere. What a great time to indulge in this fresh produce! Take a trip to your nearest farmer’s market or a local farm to buy delicious fruits and vegetables while enjoying the outdoors and exploring the many booths.

If you’re not a big vegetable fan, there are many painless ways to eat them that are healthy and delicious! Check out this blog for new ways to prepare (and enjoy) veggies.

3. Build a better burger for the barbecue.

Summer vacation calls for backyard barbecues with friends! You can plan for a healthier meal and still enjoy a burger. The regular burger you’ll find at most cookouts is on the fattier side, but you have healthier alternatives to choose from.

Try lean meat like turkey or chicken, and substitute a white bun with whole wheat. Then, you can add delicious toppings like guacamole, feta cheese, or veggies. These small, positive changes can help you feel happier and healthier while spending time with loved ones!

4. Be smart about cold treats.

Ice cream is a must during the summer, but moderation is key! Too much can lead to a brain freeze or a bloated feeling that slows you down. Instead, try a kid-sized scoop to satisfy the craving without as much fat (or guilt!).

There are healthier ways to eat this cold treat as well, with fat-free options, frozen yogurt, or sugar-free sorbet. It’s also smart to eat healthy snacks, like watermelon and cucumber, when you’re outside in the hot weather. This way, you can still cool down and help your body recover from the heat while getting your nutrients.

5. Snack wisely.

We know it’s often easier to choose junk food between meals, but there are so many delicious and healthy snacks to try. For example, you can make treats like avocado toast, frozen yogurt bites, smoothies, and more.

Snack prep is also useful if you’re heading to the pool or going on a hike the next day. When you have healthy treats ready to go, you’ll be prepared to enjoy your outing while staying energized!

6. Cook at home.

While going out to eat every now and then is a great activity with loved ones, preparing home-cooked meals will help you stick to eating well this summer! You can create healthy dishes that will allow you to sit down and have a family dinner. You’ll also save money and know what is going into your food when you make your own.

Need ideas for cooling off in the kitchen? There are many recipes you can find online to inspire your next nutritious meal. Your local community center may even have cooking classes you can try!

The summer season is full of warmth and excitement, and you can enjoy these next few months while eating well. These tips can help you and your family stay energized while you’re out and about. Get ready to make this your healthiest summer yet!

With two locations in Lafayette, Indiana, the Lafayette Family YMCA is a community committed to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.