You have worked so hard for your beach body, why waste it on summer junk food? Although the sugar-packed frozen treats and carbonated drinks may seem quite alluring, don’t be fooled. This summer is all about eating clean because eating clean does not only make you look good, it makes you feel good. Here are my favorite healthy guilt-free alternatives for classic summer treats.
1. One-and-done ice cream
Instead of scooping yourself a heaping pile of cooling ice cream, pull out your blender and pop one chopped up frozen banana in it. Pulse this banana until it is a thick and creamy consistency. Add your choice of toppings, and you have yourself a vegan ice cream!
2. Say goodbye to fizzy drinks
Soda does not have any nutritional value and can lead to obesity, kidney problems and diabetes. Also, just because the label may read “Diet,” it does not mean it is healthy. Swap out your soda with fruit-infused water. This refreshing alternative holds many benefits, such as nutritional value and a boost in your metabolism. The best part about infused water is that you can personalize it. You can incorporate your favorite fruits and vegetables to modify the health benefits it gives. If you are stuck on what to make, try my favorite mix of strawberry, kiwi and cucumbers.
3. Smoothie Bowls (a.k.a Heaven in a Bowl)
If you are weary of trying the one-and-done banana ice cream, opt for a smoothie bowl. Instead of making a thin smoothie, leave your perfect frozen fruit and veggie mix thick and pour it into a bowl. You can top this with sliced fruit, granola, nuts or my favorite — chia seeds. If you are smoothie inept, next time you are grocery shopping pick up a Dole or Jamba Juice frozen fruit mix. All you need to do is add your choice of juice and turn the blender on. Not only do these taste amazing, but they make a stellar Instagram post.
Eating healthy does not mean you can’t indulge or feed your sweet tooth. It means substituting the high-calorie, non-nutritious foods with fresh, clean alternatives to live and feel healthy.
