Eating Lighter in the Summertime

By Debbie Maranville

Do you naturally shift your mindset to lighter and cooler meals during the summertime?

During the heat of the summer, our bodies are geared to receive lighter meals. This in turn allows us the energy needed to move through a hot day. Hiking, gardening, outside chores and sharing backyard get-togethers are shifting to lighter, cooler and refreshing foods and beverages.

When it is hot outside, give your body a break by replacing your meat dishes with yummy veggies. Meat is heavy and will make you drowsy, as it takes a while for it to digest. According to the Mayo Clinic, it takes six to eight hours for food to pass through the stomach and through the small intestine. Digestibility refers to how much of a food can be broken down into fundamental nutrients used by the body.

It regularly takes up to 72 hours to digest red meat. “That’s because fats are more difficult for the body to break down and require a more elaborate process than other nutrients,” said Dr. Pamela Peeke, as reported in the Huffington Post. “Because of this, your body sends more energy to the source of digestion, leaving you feeling zapped.”

If you do eat meat from the grill, avoid using heavy sauces that are cream-based or barbecue sauces that are full of sugar. Alternatively, you can grill a veggie burger and serve it with a stir-fry and a host of vegetables for a healthier option.

Our catering company sees a big shift in the menus chosen by our clients for weddings, showers, open houses and special events. There are more entrees and appetizers made with fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs and grilled meats.

Most recently, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune disease that causes the body to make antibodies that attack the cells in the thyroid. Some of my symptoms have been tiredness, weight gain, muscle weakness and I have difficulty concentrating. My doctor, Dr. Rebecca Chatfield, the Mobile Health Doc, looked deep into my eyes and said I should eliminate gluten and dairy immediately. Of course, I was stunned. However, after several weeks of changing my diet, especially during the warmer months, I have started to feel so much better.

I love to cook! Most recently, I have played around with my creativity and foods that I love and wanted to share this Zucchini Pizza recipe with you. It’s light, full of veggies and can be eaten cold. I have even served it to children and they loved it. It is perfect for summer meals or any season, actually.

May your summer be cool and refreshing!

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Another great way to get antioxidants is by eating your fruits and vegetables.

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