How is Your Summer Weight Loss Going?

Have you been making progress on your weight loss goals? A lot of our clients are focused on weight loss in the summer months when they are spending more time outside, in the water, and wanting to feel good in their own skin. 

Some of us have an easier time losing weight in the summer. The hot temperatures keep us sweating throughout the day and we’re burning calories swimming, hiking, walking, and being more active in general. Fresh healthy fruits and veggies are in season and we naturally reach for lighter, healthier foods in the hot weather. 

Others actually struggle to lose weight in the summer and there are a few reasons for this. Summer is a more social season and for many, that means more food and more consumption of alcohol. Processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol are all triggers for weight gain and can cause hormonal imbalances. Your gut health affects your weight and if you’re overindulging in processed carbs and alcohol, that’s a recipe for disaster!

On top of that, some of us overdo the exercising in the summer and end up raising our cortisol due to too much physical stress! Exercise is great, but if you’re overdoing it to try and reach your weight loss goals faster, the result may be the opposite. Taking a slow and steady approach to weight loss with lifestyle changes is the best way to achieve long-term goals. 

No matter where you are in your weight loss journey now is always a good time to take a pause and check in with yourself. Are you eating nutritious foods that will fuel a  healthy gut microbiome? Are you taking time each day for movement and relaxation? If you feel like you’ve fallen off the weight loss wagon this summer, don’t stress! Here are some ways you can get back on track

 

1. Cut out excess sugars! It’s okay to treat yourself, especially at social events – but cutting out sugar in your daily diet will make a huge impact on your weight loss goals. Try replacing processed sweets with fresh fruit like a yummy watermelon, or a handful of fresh berries. 
2. Walk more! If you feel like you can’t squeeze in a workout, or are spending all day sitting behind a computer, a simple walk can work wonders. Walking has amazing health benefits and is a low-stress weight loss aid. Even if you can only fit in a quick walk around the block – do it! 
3. Make Healthy swaps! If you’re craving french fries, try having homemade sweet potato fries instead. Instead of alcohol, try fresh iced tea or water with fruit. Little changes throughout the day can lead to great results
4. Get Acupuncture! Acupuncture can help balance your hormones, lower your stress, and treat underlying conditions that may be making it hard to lose weight! 

Weight loss is a journey, and focusing on your health and wellbeing is key. Whether you’ve reached your goal this summer or are just getting back on track, be proud of where you are now and ease into a routine that will keep you healthy. 

We hope these tips help you take small steps to big progress, and we hope to see you soon!