6 Delicious Summer Foods to Help Weight Loss
Although adding these foods to your diet won’t automatically boost weight loss, the addition of seasonal fruits and vegetables during the summer can replace some of the not-so-healthy foods, like chips and dips, hot dogs, and sugary desserts.
1.Cucumbers
As they are are over 95% water, cucumbers are one of summer’s best-kept secrets. This veggie is ultra-hydrating, which we all need more of in the warmer months. Cucumbers are low in calories and contain fiber and vitamins C and K. Try adding sliced cucumber to water, freezing cucumber and lime popsicles, or making a quick cucumber and tomato Greek-style salad.
2. Berries
Berries are at their best in early summer. From raspberries to blueberries to strawberries, this entire fruit family is loaded with antioxidants and fiber that can help your weight loss journey. Just one cup of raspberries contains 8 grams of fiber — almost one-third of a woman’s daily needs!
3. Stone Fruits
Another summertime favorite, stone fruits are deliciously sweet and ripe from May to September. The stone fruit family comprises peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots, and cherries, which all contain healthy amounts of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Stone fruits are perfect for grilling — try adding them on top of pizza or salad!
4. Pineapple
Although the sweet tropical pineapple has a bit more sugar than other fruits (like berries and stone fruit), it has the bonus of bromelain — a natural digestive enzyme that helps digest food, provides anti-inflammatory action, and reduces bloating.
5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are at their peak in the summer — and you can taste the difference! Summer-ripe tomatoes are sweet, juicy, and perfect for boosting weight loss. Whether you’re going for cherry tomatoes or heirloom, one serving of the fruit contains about 30 calories with 2 to 3 grams of fiber. Plus, tomatoes are rich in lycopene — an antioxidant that helps fight against sun damage (but still don’t forget your sunscreen!)
6. Watermelon
It wouldn’t be summer without watermelon! As its name suggests, this melon is loaded with hydrating water (over 90% of the fruit is H2O!), plus fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Like tomatoes (and other pink and red produce), watermelon also contains the antioxidant lycopene, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
